All too often, we choose a doctor at the worst possible moment - when we're sick, frightened, and vulnerable. That's hardly a prescription for reasoned decision making.

So how should you pick a doctor? Unfortunately, with more than 8,000 licensed medical doctors in the Denver metropolitan area practicing an ever-growing number of specialties, there is no easy formula.

Ultimately, the responsibility for making a smart choice falls squarely on your shoulders - and information is your most important tool. Which may explain the ongoing popularity of 5280's Top Doctors survey.