Setting up regular physical exams is an important step in managing your health. But for many people, making a decision about which doctor to see can be a bit intimidating. There are so many different options to look through, plus the hassle of figuring out who takes your insurance. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through each step of the process. We promise it’s a lot easier than you might think, especially with some helpful advice along the way.
Whether it’s been a few years since you last saw a physician or you’re not happy with your current doctor, it’s time to find a new primary care physician. But what exactly is a primary care physician, and how can you find one that’s a good fit for you? In this guide, we’ll cover all that and more to make sure you’re able to connect with a doctor who can provide the best level of care for your unique health needs.
What Is a Primary Care Physician?
Primary care physicians, often known as primary care providers or simply PCPs, are health care professionals who help patients manage general medical issues. That includes routine checkups as well as non-emergency medical care.
Most primary care providers are doctors, but some PCPs are physician assistants or nurse practitioners. For health issues that require additional expertise outside the scope of general medical care, your PCP can refer you to a specialist.
There are a few common types of primary care physicians:
Think about which type of PCP is the best fit for your needs before you begin your search.
Step 1: Start Your Search Online
Today, most people find their primary care physician online. The internet is a great tool for finding doctors near you who can tend to your healthcare needs.
There are two main ways to search for primary care providers online:
Step 2: Narrow Down the Options
With either of the search methods described in step 1, you’re sure to come across dozens of PCPs from which to choose. To get a more concise list of options, narrow it down to only the physicians who meet all three of these criteria:
Step 3: Compare Reviews
Patient reviews can tell you more about what to expect from each doctor you’re considering. Look up reviews online across a variety of sites, like Yelp, Google My Business, RateMDs, and Doctor.com. You can also check whether they have any testimonials listed on their website.
You may also want to ask around with trusted friends or family who live in your area. Ask which doctors they’ve liked and ask for more information about their experiences.
How to Find a Doctor Who Accepts Your Insurance
You’ve found a potential primary care provider that you’re interested in based on their location, their services, and their reviews. But now comes the dreaded follow-up question: Does this doctor accept my insurance?
If you took the advice from step one to look within your healthcare network, you’re already off to a great start. Or perhaps you see on their website that your insurance is listed among their accepted health care plans. In both cases, you should be ready to move forward with making an appointment.
Keep in mind, however, that when doctors or medical practices leave a health plan, the information online doesn’t always reflect that right away. So when you do call to make an appointment, be sure to double-check that your insurance is accepted.
What if you’re not sure what health insurance plans a doctor accepts? Again, the best way to find out is to just give their office a call. Have your insurance card ready to provide any necessary information to the administrative staff so you can get the information you need to decide if this doctor is a good fit for you.
If you’re looking for a convenient, friendly, and knowledgeable primary care physician in the Huntington Beach area, be sure to consider Bella Terra Primary Care. Contact us at 714-248-9068 to learn more.