Choosing a Primary Care Provider

I just made a call to schedule my annual preventive screening and was caught off guard when the receptionist told me that my doctor would be retiring at the end of the year.  I’ve been seeing my doctor for many years and we have such a great relationship.  I feel like I’m losing a trusted friend.  There are several reasons why you may be searching for a primary care provider (PCP).  Like me, maybe your doctor is retiring or perhaps you’ve recently moved.  Or you’re a young adult, and the last doctor you remember seeing was your pediatrician from childhood.  Finding the right doctor or health care provider is an important part of your medical care.  Read on to learn more about PCPs and finding one that’s right for you.   

What is a primary care provider?  
PCPs are trained to serve as your main doctor over the long term.   Individuals make appointments to see their primary care provider for general health problems and preventive screenings.  Primary care providers treat many common medical conditions and will also refer you to specialists (doctors who treat specific parts of the body, conditions, or age groups) if needed. 

Types of primary care providers:
General practitioners and family practitioners treat a variety of medical problems in people of all ages.  In addition to caring for children and adults of all ages, their practice may include obstetrics and minor surgery. 

Internists are adult doctors who deal with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases.   

Obstetricians/gynecologists are doctors who often provide all or some of the primary care needs for women, especially those of childbearing age.

Nurse Practitioners (NP) and Physician Assistants (PA) are trained to provide many aspects of primary care.  They have gone through different certification and training than doctors.  They are commonly called “physician extenders”, consult with physicians, and are able to write prescriptions. 

Pediatricians serve as primary care doctors for many children including newborns, infants, and adolescents. 

Things to consider:
Recommendations: Once you have an idea of what type of doctor is right for you, ask around for recommendations. For example, ask trustworthy coworkers, family, or friends the following:

• Would you recommend your current doctor?
• What do you like about your doctor?  
• If you are sick, are you able to get in to see your doctor right away?

It is important to consider your personal need when selecting a primary care provider. The following questions can help you make your decision.

• Would you prefer your doctor’s office be close to work or your home?
• Are clinic office hours convenient for you?
• Is the PCP accepting new patients?
• Is the office staff helpful and good about returning phone calls?
• Is it easy to contact the provider?  Do they use email?
• Who sees patients if your doctor is not available or out of town?
• Can you get x-rays or lab work done in the office or nearby?
• How long is the normal office visit?  (You want a doctor who will take time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain things clearly.
• Is the PCP covered under my health plan?

Choosing a Primary Care Provider:

-          If you are covered under a Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire health plan, visit us online @ group-health.com to view our Provider Directory. 

-          If you are covered under a Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire health plan, you can also contact Group Health’s Member Services Department at (715) 552-4300 or (888) 203-7770 to assist you in making a primary care selection. 

Review your choice.  After your first appointment, think about if you are happy with the choice you made.  Patient doctor relationships do take time to develop, but if you are not happy with your choice you may want to consider finding a new primary care provider.  Think about the following:

• Did my doctor give me a chance to ask questions?
• Did my doctor truly listen to my concerns and respond in ways I understood?
• Did my doctor make me feel comfortable and respected?
• Have you ever had to search for a new doctor?  What steps did you take to find one that was a good fit for you?

References:

National Library of Medicine Medline Plus
Choosing a Primary Care Provider

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