Word of mouth is the source for many of my referrals. The best compliment you can give me and the work I do is a referral. However, sometimes I cannot work with someone, especially if the person is in the same family or a close friend of a current or former patient. The question I often get asked is, “why?” My kids have the same pediatrician. My best friend and I go to the same dermatologist. I totally get it. However, most professionals have a code of conduct and ethical guidelines to follow.