If you’ve moved to a new area or your doctor has retired, you may be forced to start searching for a new doctor.
There are several logical first steps to take.
- Check with your insurance provider to obtain a list of covered providers
- Ask your relatives, friends and co-workers for any recommendations
- Check online resources for reviews of providers in your area
Do you choose a Medical Doctor (MD) or Physician Assistant/Associate (PA)? Does it matter? Both are clinicians and treat their own patients. PAs can do the majority of the things that an MD can do.
For primary medical care, an MD, PA or Nurse Practitioner (NP) has the education, training and experience to handle general medical tasks such as:
- Examine patients
- Take medical history
- Diagnose illnesses and conditions
- Provide basic treatment
- Prescribe medication
- Order tests
- Counsel on preventive care
Once you identify a provider, the next step is to call the medical practice. This will enable you to confirm that they accept your insurance and see if they are taking new patients.
Good luck in your search!