How do I know that my physician (cardiologist or surgeon) is truly a competent physician? That is a very difficult question. You can ask the same question when you bring your car to a mechanic, when you consult an attorney, or any other professional. Of course, you want "the best there is" for your child. You also have seen all these TV commercials where each institution claims to be "the best". We tend to think that universities must be top notch simply because of name recognition. But all this does not tell you anything. (A well known University may be famous for cancer treatment but has very limited expertise with congenital heart disease). But there are some simple, common sense ways to help you in evaluation of your physicians. Doctors who will not sit down with you to explain any of the above discussed questions but rather tell you "This is what needs to be done" are suspect; they do not play with open cards. Conversely, physicians who explain the child's problem, explain treatment options, explain risks, and outcomes, discuss with you their past experience in an open manner, those physicians are the ones whom you may trust. Remember, YOU sign the "Informed consent for operation": that means YOU make the decision, not your doctor. And only after you have been informed can you make an informed decision. Another way to "evaluate" your doctor is to ask him where you can get a second opinion. A helpful response is a sign that your doctor knows what he is doing; a critical or a hostile response tells you that this doctor has "other agendas" which is not necessarily in your child's interest.