Filter Blogs By
How Do I Find a Urologist?
If you’re dealing with issues like frequent urination, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, erectile dysfunction, or concerns with your bladder or prostate, it may be time to see a urologist—a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions of the urinary tract and male reproductive system. But how exactly do you go about finding the right urologist for your needs?
Whether you’ve been referred by a primary care doctor or are starting your search on your own, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find a qualified, trustworthy urologist who fits your health needs and personal preferences.
1. Ask Your Primary Care Doctor
One of the easiest and most reliable ways to find a urologist is through a referral from your primary care physician (PCP). Most urologists require a referral anyway—especially if you’re using insurance. Your PCP can help determine whether you need to see a urologist and may recommend one based on your specific health concerns and medical history.
This option also ensures better continuity of care, as your doctor can coordinate with the urologist and share relevant medical records.
2. Check With Your Health Insurance Provider
If you have health insurance, it’s important to find a urologist who is in-network to keep your out-of-pocket costs manageable. You can do this by:
- Visiting your insurance company’s website and using their provider directory.
- Calling the member services number on your insurance card for help.
Be sure to check if a referral is required and what specific procedures or visits are covered under your plan.
3. Use Online Doctor Directories
There are several trusted medical directories where you can search for urologists based on location, specialty, and patient reviews:
- Healthgrades.com
- Zocdoc.com
- Vitals.com
- WebMD Physician Directory
- UrologyCareFoundation.org (the official patient site of the American Urological Association)
These platforms often include helpful details like:
- Patient ratings and reviews
- Languages spoken
- Office locations
- Years of experience
- Special areas of focus (e.g., men’s health, kidney stones, cancer treatment)
4. Search Through Hospital or Medical Group Websites
If there’s a local hospital or medical center you trust, visit their website and search for urologists affiliated with their system. Many hospitals have online provider directories that include bios, photos, credentials, and patient reviews. This is a good way to ensure the urologist works within a reputable network.
Some well-known health systems also offer online appointment scheduling, which makes the process easier and faster.
5. Look for Board Certification and Credentials
Not all doctors who treat urinary issues are board-certified urologists. To make sure you’re getting expert care, look for urologists who are:
- Board certified by the American Board of Urology (ABU)
- Fellowship-trained (if you have a complex or specialized issue)
- Affiliated with reputable medical organizations or hospitals
Board certification means the doctor has passed rigorous exams and maintains ongoing education in the field of urology.
6. Ask Friends, Family, or Trusted Professionals
Sometimes a recommendation from someone you know can be the most valuable. Ask friends, family members, or colleagues if they’ve had a positive experience with a urologist in your area. Even if their condition is different from yours, they may offer helpful insight about the doctor’s communication style, office staff, and overall patient experience.
7. Consider Specialty Needs
Urologists often have different areas of expertise. Consider what you need help with, and look for a provider who focuses on that area. For example:
- Kidney stones – Find a urologist with expertise in stone removal or prevention.
- Erectile dysfunction – Choose a urologist who treats men’s sexual health.
- Urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse in women – You may want to see a urogynecologist instead, who specializes in women’s pelvic floor issues.
- Urologic cancer – Seek a urologist with experience in oncology.
Many doctors list their specialties and procedures they perform online or in their bios.
8. Schedule a Consultation
Once you narrow down your options, call the office and schedule an initial appointment or consultation. During that visit, you can evaluate:
- How comfortable you feel with the doctor
- Whether they listen and explain things clearly
- Office cleanliness and staff professionalism
- Ease of scheduling future visits or follow-ups
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek a second opinion if you’re unsure.
Final Thoughts
Finding a urologist doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with a referral from your doctor or insurer, then do a bit of research to make sure you’re choosing someone with the right qualifications, experience, and bedside manner. If you’re in need of a urologist in Brooklyn, we recommend reaching out to us. Whether you’re dealing with something minor or more serious, a good urologist can offer the right diagnosis, treatment, and guidance to help you feel better and regain confidence in your health.
Back to Blogs