How to Find a Primary Care Physician

Research has shown the importance of primary care and its impact on living a longer, healthier life.

But how do you find your primary care doctor?

In some cases, your insurance company may assign you a doctor and that works out perfectly. For others, especially those with more complex health concerns, it may not be so easy.

For those with insurance, it is wise to start with the list of in-network healthcare providers, to keep costs to a minimum. From there, go online and look at reviews.

Sometimes, there’s no better way to know than to go in for an appointment. It’s valuable to have a personal connection with your provider, whether they are a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant (both fully qualified to handle your care.) You should feel comfortable with and heard by your provider.

If you have a more complex medical history, it can be valuable to find a primary care professional in the same hospital system or physician’s group as a variety of specialists and hospitals. Additionally, be sure that your PC can share medical records electronically to any specialists that may need to see them.

Learn more details about how to find a primary care doctor, and how to “break up” with one, in this piece from NPR Health.