Use the Internet extensively while you're searching for a family practice doctor. Not only can you take a look at review sites (paid and free), you can also peruse the websites of the doctors that have them. This can give you a good idea of their strengths and weakness, not to mention providing basic contact info.

Unless you live in a very small town, there's no reason to make do with a doctor who makes you or one of your family members feel uncomfortable. If your family practice doctor rubs you the wrong way, start looking around for a replacement, stat.

Family practice came into being as a specialty in the 1960s, because the profession realized that it was difficult for patients to follow up with multiple doctors for different ailments. If you feel the same, a family practice doctor may be your best option, because they're trained in a wide range of medical subjects.