Tips on finding a Primary Care Physician

When you need to find a doctor, take the time to research your options. Follow the steps below to help find the doctor that meets your needs.

1. Make a List of Potential Doctors
   • Start with the network. Health plans like HMOs and PPOs use a certain group of doctors and health care professionals. This is called a provider network. Before you see a doctor, search your plan's Provider Finder for doctors in your provider network. Register or log in to your insurance company's member portal, our secure member website, for a personalized search experience based on your health plan and network.
   • Ask your family and friends for doctor references.
   • Check local resources. Check with local hospitals to see if they have a referral service. If you're moving to a new area, ask your current doctor to help you find a qualified doctor near your new home.
2. Research and Narrow Your List
   • Ask questions. Contact the doctors on your list and ask for information about their background. Some of these questions might include:
     • What is the doctor's training and education?
     • How long has he or she been in practice?
     • What is the doctor's age and gender? (If important to you)
     • Is the doctor board-certified? (This requires specialty training.)
   • Check for complaints. Contact your state's department of insurance and see if the doctors you are considering have had complaints filed against them.
   • Go online. Search online for articles and reports about the doctors you are considering.Many insurance companies recognize HMO contracting medical groups/Independent Practice Associations (IPAs) that have documented high levels of performance in providing patient care.
3. Meet Your Doctor(s)
   • Meet and greet. Once you've narrowed your list to a handful of doctors, set up appointments so you can get to know the candidates. Bring a list of questions and be prepared to discuss any concerns. Some offices charge a small fee for a meet and greet, but it could be well worth it.
   • Make your choice. By now you should have a pretty good idea of your prime candidate. Save your research, just in case you decide to switch doctors later. But, if you've done everything outlined here, chances are you've found the right doctor for you!