Choosing a doctor is an important and often difficult decision. Many people go on the advice of family and friends. However, there are times, such as when moving to a new location, that there is no one to ask and so the decision becomes harder. Doing research about a doctor is a prudent decision. This sounds easier than it often is. Medical malpractice doctor's records are not as transparent as they should be. Websites and directory listings on the Internet can provide some information but not always the hard facts that are needed. One of the issues affecting the accuracy of information is that if a doctor has a history of medical malpractice, he or she will often move to another state where their record is not known. This allows them to get licensed again and start over with a clean slate. On the other hand, finding the records that show malpractice may not be enough information. Often these records are filled with terminology that is difficult for a layman to understand. Some medical malpractice cases are not what they appear on the surface and may not be as detrimental as perceived. The important thing is to make sure and find out as much as possible about a doctor and their medical background before having major procedures performed.