The Importance of Primary Care

There are many ways to stay healthy. A great way to safeguard your health is to ensure you have a primary care doctor.

A Primary Care Provider (PCP) is essential for your medical care. When you establish a medications and perform the other activities necessary for a healthy lifestyle.

How do I find a primary care provider?

Your PCP is a partner in your long-term care, so choose one who is attentive and responsive to your needs and one with whom you’ll feel comfortable sharing your concerns.

When searching for a PCP who accepts your health plan, you can search online for reviews of different providers to find the best options. Also, talk to other health care providers you already visit, as well as family and friends in the area, for their recommendations.

Once you have selected a Primary Care Provider, you still are able to ask them questions to make sure they are the right fit. You may be interested in their qualifications and certifications, their approach to preventive care, their responsiveness, their office hours, their practice and more.

How often should I visit my primary care provider?

You should schedule a visit with your PCP once each year for your annual physical examination.

Why is having a primary care provider important?

Rather than waiting until an emergency strikes and scrambling to find care — from someone who is not well versed in your medical history — be proactive and establish a connection with a Primary Care Provider.

Your PCP should establish a medical relationship with you over months and years to understand your unique needs. They can recommend any lifestyle changes you may be able to make to prevent disease.

During your routine checkup, your PCP will likely be the first person to identify any medical issues you have developed, and either recommend treatment or refer you to the appropriate specialist.

PCPs are especially important for people with chronic health conditions who need careful monitoring of their symptoms and the ability to adjust their treatment plans when necessary.

Because PCPs are at the center of your medical care, they can oversee all of your medications, including different prescriptions for multiple conditions, and make sure there are no potentially harmful interactions between them. They can also help you coordinate care among specialists in the event you are admitted to or discharged from the hospital or are diagnosed with a new medical condition.

The right choice

When it comes to your wellbeing, there’s no reason to go it alone. You have access to experts ready to guide you, and it’s covered by your health benefits. Set up a meeting with a primary care provider today!

NOTE: PPO plans do not require Primary Care Providers (PCP).

Kaiser plans have no Primary Care Provider facility assignment. Once enrolled in a plan, you can select a facility, and from there you can select a PCP. You can change your PCP by calling the Health Plan.