Provider Red Flags Checklist
Recognize dismissive or unsafe care patterns so you can seek a better fit.
Listening & Validation
- Interrupts frequently or speaks over you.
- Minimizes pain or labels it “normal.”
- Attributes symptoms to anxiety without assessment.
- Uses undermining language like “claims” or “insists.”
Bias & Dismissal
- Calls you dramatic, emotional, or difficult.
- Disregards previous specialist opinions.
- Questions your reliability instead of your data.
- Suggests your symptoms are psychosomatic.
Competence & Follow-Through
- Refuses referrals or repeats failed treatments.
- Leaves major symptoms undocumented.
- No plan for worsening symptoms or emergencies.
Boundaries & Safety
- Rushes you or ignores your concerns.
- Discourages questions or second opinions.
- Refuses to correct record errors.