Taking care of your family’s health requires a trusted primary care physician. This highly trained provider serves as your first point of contact for assessment and treatment of acute and chronic health issues. The PCP also manages all aspects of a patient’s needs and desired health goals. Here is how to find the right primary care physician for you and for your entire family.
How to Find a Primary Care Physician
Finding the right primary care physician for your family can seem daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding what to look for in a PCP and doing some careful research, you can find the perfect healthcare provider for every member of your family.
Research Qualifications and Specialties
The first things to consider when looking for a primary care physician are professional qualifications. To find out if your prospective physician is board-certified in internal medicine or family practice, go to the American Board of Medical Specialties website. Look for “Is My Doctor Board-certified?”
Follow the questions on this page, and you will discover if the doctor is fully qualified, having the professional qualifications, associations and more needed to practice medicine competently. It also ensures that the doctor is up-to-date on the latest medical practices.
Once you have verified qualifications, consider any specialties the doctor may have. Some physicians may specialize in certain areas such as pediatrics or geriatrics, while others may have additional training in a specific area, such as sports medicine or women’s health. Look at the doctor’s website to read the biography section which includes where he or she attended medical school, areas of expertise and experience and any additional certifications the physician may hold.
Arrange an In-office Consultation
When looking for a doctor for you and your family members, consider the doctor’s personality. Traditionally, this is called the doctor’s “bedside manner.” Does the healthcare provider have a warm and welcoming demeanor? Is he or she attentive and a good listener?
These qualities can make all the difference in your overall experience as a patient. Also, consider reading online reviews or asking for a referral from a trusted and reliable friend or colleague who has had positive experiences with a particular doctor.
In addition, talk with the prospective PCP in person to give you insight on how the office operates. Is the staff friendly? Are you greeted promptly and politely? If you are bringing a child to the facility, is the atmosphere kid-friendly with toys and books appropriate to the pediatric patient? Does the doctor talk with both you and your youngster?
Regarding appointments, what is the provider’s cancellation policy? Is there a walk-in clinic for sudden treatment needs? How long does it take to get an appointment for a routine check-up? These details are important to a positive patient experience.
Verify Health Insurance Details
Call your carrier and the doctor’s office staff to verify that the physician is in-network with your health insurance. Ask when copays are due and how much they are. What are the fees for imaging, lab tests or other onsite assessments? Be proactive about your financial responsibilities to avoid surprises when you do access care.
Location And Convenience
Another factor to consider is the location and accessibility of the doctor’s office. Is it conveniently located near your home, your child’s school or day care or your workplace? Are there sufficient parking options available? Is it accessible by public transportation?
Call the office to inquire about hours of operation and if there are same-day appointments for urgent matters. Get this important information, and you will be prepared to go to routine appointments and to access care for the unexpected illness or injury.
Finally, make sure the doctor is accepting new patients. Some practices are very full. So ask the specific question so you know whether or not you can include the particular healthcare provider on your short list of possible PCPs.
Primary Care Physicians in Sarasota and Bradenton, FL
At Intercoastal Medical Group, we have 10 fully staffed locations with the providers you need to care for you, your children and the seniors in your life. Call us today to arrange a consultation at a location near you, or you may request an appointment here. We are accepting new patients and will be very happy to meet you and to answer all your questions about the care we deliver.
