Finding a qualified for your needs veterinarian in your area can be quite a task. There might be not many at all, and they might be quite a way from your home. The only way is to of course, like with anything else, do some research.

There are few places where you can find a vet. One is your local Yellow Pages. Look for 'animal hospital' or 'veterinarian'. Make a list of those who say in their advertisement that they treat exotic pets. Some listed as exotic pets vets might not have much experience in treating turtles - they might specialize in birds for example, so call them up and make sure.

Another good source of information are local herp clubs and societies. Many of them have websites and message boards, so posting a question there should yield good results.

Next would be local wildlife and bird rescue organizations. They too have websites, and an email to them or a phone call should make your search easier.

Next option are ZOO's. There is a reptile department at almost every ZOO, so there will always be someone who can at least give you a direction. Even if they don't have a qualified full time veterinarian working for them, they could give you a contact.

It is probably easier to find a qualified reptile vet in metropolitan areas. Veterinarians working in rural areas specialize mostly in domestic animals, like dogs, cats, horses, cows etc.. You might have no choice but to work with one of them. If it comes to this, pick the one who is up front with you on how much experience, if any, he or she has with reptiles. If they seem genuine in their committement to studying reptile care and medicine, go with them. They will always be better than your family doctor !