Your primary care physician should be someone with whom you can easily communicate, allowing you to ask questions, seek advice, and receive recommendations concerning your health and that of your family. However, choosing the right doctor can be quite a challenge. Here are several important questions and considerations to keep in mind when making your selection.
Does the doctor accept your insurance?
Understanding insurance is crucial for both your health and financial well-being. Not every physician accepts all forms of insurance. To confirm whether a primary care doctor is included in your insurance network, it is best to directly contact your insurance provider and inquire if the doctor is “in-network.” If you have a specific doctor in mind, you can check their network status by providing their name. If you haven’t chosen a doctor yet, your insurance company can assist you in locating an in-network provider. (See also: The One Question You Must Answer to Choose the Best Health Care Plan)
Is the doctor accepting new patients?
A physician may be within your insurance network but might not be welcoming new patients. You can resolve this by either calling the doctor’s office or using an online service like Zocdoc.com. Similar to Yelp, Zocdoc lists medical professionals along with patient reviews but also helps you identify in-network doctors accepting new patients and allows you to schedule appointments via the app. Even if a doctor isn’t listed on Zocdoc, it’s still worth contacting their office to see if they are accepting new patients.
What additional services are available?
If you reside in a competitive market, you may discover that certain doctors provide supplementary services at no additional charge or at a discounted rate. For example, in New York City, many physicians now offer free telemedicine consultations, allowing patients to hold appointments via video chats and respond to health inquiries via email more frequently than in the past. Additionally, many are hosting workshops or informational sessions on various health topics for patients and their families at no cost. Such services can significantly enhance your healthcare experience.
What are their office hours?
Our immune system often requires attention outside the typical workweek of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you anticipate needing care during weekends or evenings, check whether the doctor’s office has availability during non-standard hours.
If not, inquire about the doctor’s on-call hours or whether they have a partner practice that provides care outside regular office hours. (See also: Urgent Care or ER? How to Choose the Best Option)
Who makes up the healthcare team?
As healthcare complexities increase, many physicians’ practices employ additional medical professionals—either part-time or full-time—who specialize in various fields. This could encompass OB-GYNs, allergists, dermatologists, pediatricians, among others. Having a variety of specialties within a single practice fosters a more integrated care approach and provides your primary care physician with a broader perspective on your overall health.
Is the doctor associated with a particular hospital?
If you have a preferred hospital, it’s vital to verify a doctor’s hospital affiliations. This could influence your hospital options should you require services, making it important to familiarize yourself with this information ahead of any potential hospital visits.
What feedback do other patients provide about the practice?
When selecting a practice, consider patient reviews. Websites like Zocdoc, Yelp, and Google Reviews can offer valuable insights about the doctors, staff, and overall practice experience.
As Ralph Waldo Emerson famously said, “The first wealth is health.” Although selecting a primary care physician may feel overwhelming at times, investing the effort is worthwhile. Your primary care physician is an essential ally in managing your health, and this decision warrants careful consideration.
