DEAR DR. GOTT: I'm not completely satisfied with my current internist and would like to establish myself with another doctor. Aside from checking with my friends and the doctors they're established with, please advise me on the best procedure for finding a new doctor and the correct protocol for the first visit.

For example, should I let my new doctor know I was not satisfied with my previous doctor (no names), list the reasons why, etc.? What should I expect, if anything, on a first visit, aside from discussing current health concerns?

DEAR READER: Do some research before deciding on a new doctor. Learn about his or her medical training, especially as a resident, the next level up from internship. Ask your friends to offer suggestions. Check your new doctor's board eligibility and hospital privileges. Some hospitals offer the exact information you are puzzled about. Call your local facility for one or two referrals.

You might be asked questions including whether you prefer a male or female, whether you want someone younger or older, whether you have any current medical problems that an internist might specialise in, such as endocrinology, cardiology, rheumatology, etc.

Determine their office locations. Are they within a reasonable distance from your home? This will make an enormous difference in case of an emergency. Finally, request a get-acquainted office call to meet with the new candidate to see how the "chemistry" is.

Determine whether the doctor has a compatible replacement for days he or she isn't in the office. Will the physician admit you to the hospital should the occasion arise, or will the task will be passed off to someone else? Once you have made your choice, request that your medical records from your current physician be forwarded to your new doctor.

To send you related information, I am forwarding a copy of my Health Report "Choosing A Physician." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTT: I have a granddaughter who is eight years old. She is fixated on food. When she is eating one meal, she wants to know what is for dessert. If there is none, she wants to know what we are eating for the next meal. She is chubby now, and there are very overweight people on both sides of her family.

She begs for sweets and candy all the time. My son tries to limit her sweets, but she hides candy in her clothing to take to her bedroom. He'd like some help with this problem but doesn't know whether it is medical or something else.

DEAR READER: With obesity on both sides of the family, this could be quite a challenge. We're all aware that childhood obesity can lead to a plethora of medical issues later in life, and I admire you and your son for attempting to take a stand while she is young. I strongly urge him to address the issue with her pediatrician.

That is not my specialty, and I hesitate to give you incorrect advice. Based on the limited information in your letter,

I cannot judge whether your granddaughter has a physical ailment or a psychological one, such as an obsessive-compulsive disorder. See what the pediatrician concludes.