How To Choose A Primary Care Physician

Primary Care Physicians or PCPs are simply doctors who can take care of your general health and typically do not specialize in any one area. They are the doctors who oversee your health in general, perform regular check-ups, order tests and do preventative medicine. PCPs used to be the main doctor for everyone in the family, however now they are more the overseers of health and diagnosticians, while a variety of other providers do other types of healthcare. Some medical insurance plans demand that you select a PCP to take care of your health care needs. Others do not. If you are not sure about the guidelines of your plan, simply contact your company.

Finding the Right Primary Care Physician

Finding the right PCP to meet your needs can be a challenge. You will definitely want to put some research into your options, in order to ensure that you have a doctor that you like, respect, trust and feel comfortable working with.

• Start by contacting your medical insurance company. You will want to find out which doctors in your area are actually approved by your health plan as PCPs. Furthermore, you may be able to find out which of these doctors are currently taking on new patients. If you are a member of a HMO or PPO you may need to first have a PCP before getting any type of treatment beyond emergency care. If you need to see a specialist many medical plans require a referral from your PCP.
  
  
• Ask family, friends and others you know and trust for doctor referrals. This is the best way to help you find a doctor who is a good fit for you. Personal recommendations are always the most reliable way of choosing a doctor.
  
  
• Ask your doctor. If you are moving, ask your current doctor who he or she recommends in your new area. If you are looking for a pediatric PCP, your own PCP should be able to refer you to one.
  
  
• Contact local hospitals. Often you can easily get information about doctors in your area who are affiliated with hospitals. Their referral service will also give you information about the doctor that may help you make your decision, such as gender, languages spoken, years of experience and the location of his or her office.