One of the most important decisions you will ever make—and one you'll likely make more than once —is choosing your doctor. Choose wisely and you could rest easy for many years to come.

To Find a Great Doctor, Ask an ER Nurse
Grill the ER nurse-manager at the best local hospital. A nurse in the intensive-care unit is also a good choice. These registered nurses get a battlefield view of doctors at their best and worst.

Go Board-Certified
The American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes 24 areas of medical specialty, including anesthesiology, cardiology, internal medicine and pediatrics. Search for board-certified physicians at ABMS.org.

Get to know your hospital...before there's an emergency