Need to find a new doctor - how to make a good decision?

Our company changed insurances - I liked my previous doc, but she doesn't participatein HMO. Chose a new doctor - don't like her at all - no compassion, no return calls, etc. I have had no payment issues with her either, have paid all bills at the time of service, so it's not that.

I have a list of doctors in my area who take new HMO patients. But how to determine whether they are good or I will like? I've had this cold now for over a week, nearly two - want to get a doctor who might be able to help and wish to change to a better doc, but don't know how to determine the next one will be any better. We must report our desired change of doctors to the insurance before switching, so just making an appt. with any of them and going isn't such an easy deal.

Also, what's the difference between an "MD" and a "DO"? Is one better than the other for routine things like colds, respiratory infections and normal yearly physicals?