There are several criteria you should keep in mind when choosing a doctor to handle your infertility problem. Whether it be an OB/GYN (Obstetrician/Gynecologist) or an RE (Reproduction Endocrinologist), there are certain things you should look for to ensure that you have a competent professional specialist on your side.
Firstly, make sure that you know about your doctor's training and experience. Just because it says in the yellow pages that they are an "infertility doctor" doesn't mean they are a trained infertility specialist. You should ask whether the doctor has done a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. If they have not, then they are probably just a general gynecologist who has a special interest in infertility. If you have just a regular OB/GYN you should ask them at what point they will refer you to an infertility specialist. Generally this should happen within 6-12 months of treatment with your OB/GYN. If your case is more serious, you should be referred immediately.
If you are seeking in vitro fertilization treatment (IVF) ask the doctor what their success rate is. That is, what is their rate of pregnancy over the past year for embryo transfers performed and what their success rate is with people who have had a similar problem to your own. Afterall, you want to be sure this person is successfully treating people with the same problems as yours.
If cost is a concern for you make sure that you talk to your doctor about this. Get a detailed break down of the costs and exactly how much of that is not covered by your insurance.....meaning it will be your responsibility to pay for. Make sure that the price you are quoted includes all the details....physician's fees, ultrasound and blood monitoring, facility fees, anesthesia related fees, or anything else. If your doctor seems hesitant to talk to you about the money involved, or if they down play it as not being important then maybe you should consider another doctor. Afterall, if the doctor isn't looking out for your best interest, should you really be there?
You are also going to want to make sure that your doctor is well equipped to look after your needs during treatment. Make sure all his equipment is up-to-date and that his staff is knowledgeable, responsible, and caring. The bare minimum that your doctor should have is: