A primary care physician is usually more than just a doctor for people. Commonly known as “family doctors,” primary care doctors go beyond just providing symptom-based interventions. Over time, they understand a patient’s health history thoroughly and can deduce the causes of specific conditions based on their long-term observations. Moreover, they can refer one to specialists if required. Here are some tips that can help one find good primary care physicians:
Verify the doctor’s credentials
It is imperative to check a doctor’s qualifications, experience, license, fellowship training, and other such details before finalizing them as the go-to healthcare professional. Besides checking the doctor’s personal or clinic website, one should verify the details on the Federation of Medical Boards website, which, through its DocInfo.org feature, provides accurate professional details regarding doctors.
Look up in-network doctors
Reputed health insurance providers cover esteemed hospitals and clinics where primary healthcare providers may operate. Checking the list of doctors covered in the insurance policy helps one find good-quality medical care while being financially reimbursed for it. Although health insurance plans may not cover self-initiated health checkups, most of them cover one annual check-up with primary care doctors.
Ask about available modes of consultation
Gone are the days when patients had to be seated in crowded waiting rooms, regardless of their health condition, waiting for turns at clinics. Today, online consultations offer incredible convenience, allowing patients to consult doctors from the comfort of their homes. Although doctors may want to physically examine patients during the initial consultation, follow-ups may be carried out virtually. So, one should check if shortlisted physicians offer varied modes of consultation before choosing a primary care doctor.
Check whether it is individual or group practice
Some primary care providers practice individually, whereas others may practice as part of a group of doctors. In the latter scenario, other doctors in the group, such as an assistant, may also provide consultation and treatment. It helps to know whether a primary care provider functions independently or in a group; if the doctor is part of a group, one should also enquire about the other doctors’ professional qualifications and experience.
Examine clinic environment
Although checking medical expertise and experience in the field is a key step for shortlisting doctors, the clinic’s environment plays a crucial role in the doctor’s efficacy. A clinic should be equipped with the latest infrastructure and technology to facilitate efficient diagnoses and advanced treatment. Moreover, the healthcare center should be well-staffed to offer adequate assistance and care.
Schedule an initial consultation
An initial consultation is essential for understanding whether the primary care provider is reliable. Moreover, consultations enable one to understand the doctor’s communication and listening skills and willingness to help patients. These qualities are particularly indispensable for primary care doctors, as they typically go on to treat patients on a long-term basis. During the first consultation, one should be open about the history of health conditions, the existence of any health issues in the family, and any current health concerns. Such openness on the part of patients makes it easier for doctors to understand their requirements and the suitable approach.
Check online reviews and feedback
Online reviews can help one understand the doctor’s genuineness and expertise through other patients’ personal experiences. Reviews can also offer insight into staff behavior, ease of making an appointment, and clinic environment. Further, one should speak with family members, friends, colleagues, or acquaintances about their primary care doctors to get more details.
A thorough consideration of the doctor’s expertise, the services offered, and the cost of such services can help one find a reliable primary care physician.