Compare the proposed diagnosis
If two providers recommend different treatments, ask whether they agree on the underlying problem and goals. Different diagnoses cannot be compared by price alone.
Compare who is responsible
Know who sees the patient, who plans treatment and who manages complications. Practice branding should not obscure provider responsibility.
Compare scope and total fee
Records, refinements, emergency visits and retainers may be included differently. Get the scope in writing.
Compare travel over the whole treatment
For patients in Langford, Sidney or Sooke, a modest difference in appointment frequency can add many hours of travel over a year.
Questions to take to a consultation
- What is the diagnosis and treatment objective?
- Who will personally diagnose, plan and supervise treatment?
- What reasonable alternatives exist?
- What is included in the total fee, including refinements and retainers?
- How often are in-person visits expected?
Sources and verification
Primary and professional references used to review this page. External information can change; verify current provider and regulatory details at the publisher.