Learn about primary care options and recommendations to help you find your ideal provider.
Choosing the right primary care physician (PCP) is an important step toward achieving and maintaining optimal health. PCPs serve as your main health advocate, offering preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and guiding you through the healthcare system. They may provide continuous care to you and your family over decades and serve as a consistent point of contact for all your medical needs. Establishing a strong relationship with a PCP not only increases your likelihood of better health outcomes but also enhances your satisfaction as a patient, as few other providers will know your medical needs as well as your long-term PCP. Understanding the different types of primary care providers and selecting one that aligns with your health needs and personal preferences is therefore essential for your successful healthcare journey. But how do you choose the right one?
Understanding Primary Care Providers
First, let’s get a better understanding of Primary Care providers and the different types available. Primary care physicians are medical professionals trained to offer first-contact and continuous care for those with undiagnosed health concerns, as well as ongoing care for varied medical conditions. They emphasize holistic health, preventive measures, and patient education, ensuring that healthcare is both accessible and customized to individual patient needs.
Types of Primary Care Physicians
Primary care encompasses several specialties, each catering to specific patient demographics and health needs:
Pediatric Physicians Specializing in the health of children from birth through adolescence, pediatricians address developmental issues, immunizations, and common childhood illnesses.
Family Medicine Physicians These practitioners provide comprehensive care across all ages, from infants to the elderly. Their broad expertise allows them to manage a wide range of health issues, making them ideal for families seeking a single healthcare provider.
Internal Medicine Physicians Focusing on adult patients, internists are adept at diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions, emphasizing preventive care and chronic disease management.
The Role of Advanced Practice Providers
You may wonder why at think we often refer to our medical staff as providers, and other times, we refer to them as doctors or physicians. It’s because think also employees Advanced Practice Providers. Advanced Practice Providers (APP) can be Physician Assistants or Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. These medical professionals can see and treat patients similarly to physicians but are supervised by the physician. In essence, an APP is a representative of that physician. PA-Cs and APRNs may see their patients, even though a physician still supervises them. Physicians tend to increase the number of patients they care for as their practice grows. At some point, there isn’t enough time in the day to see everyone. That’s when a PA-C or APRN can be invaluable. They can see the less acute cases, like medication checks, sinus infections, cold symptoms, etc., while the physician can focus on the more complex or acute patients. Physicians oversee diagnosis and treatment plans for patients seen by our PA-C or APRN providers. Both physicians and Advanced Practice Providers work together to care for their patients efficiently and effectively.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Primary Care Physician
Now that you understand the different types of Primary Care and providers, let’s look at selecting the right PCP. It involves more than just understanding their specialty. Consider the following factors to ensure you find a good fit for your health needs:
Assess Your Health Needs
Reflect on your current health status and any chronic conditions. For instance, if you have a complex medical history, an internist might be suitable. Families with children may prefer a family medicine physician who can treat all members. Make a list of your health concerns to be addressed and any specific qualities you are seeking in your provider.
Check Insurance Coverage
Ensure the physician is within your health insurance network to avoid unexpected expenses. Contact your insurance provider for a list of in-network doctors. You can also contact providers to see if they accept your insurance – for example here at think we provide a complete list of all insurances we accept on our insurance page.
Seek Recommendations
Ask friends, family, or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into a physician’s practice style and patient care approach.
Consider Accessibility
Evaluate the location of the physician’s office, their office hours, availability, and access to specialists and screenings at their facility. Proximity and convenient hours are essential for regular visits and urgent care needs.
Review Credentials and Experience
Research the physician’s educational background, board certifications, and years of practice. Experienced doctors may offer a higher level of expertise, especially for specific health conditions.
Schedule an Initial Appointment
Meeting the physician in person can help determine if they are the right fit for you. Ensure you feel comfortable and confident in their care.
You’ve found a great Primary Care Physician – Great! What’s next?
You’ve done your research and found your ideal provider, terrific. Now what? Establishing a relationship with your new primary care physician (PCP) is a significant step toward proactive health management. Here’s how to make the most of this partnership:
Transfer Your Medical Records
Ensure your new PCP has a comprehensive understanding of your health history by transferring your medical records from previous providers. This includes past diagnoses, treatments, surgeries, and current medications. Having these records allows your new PCP to provide informed and personalized care.
Schedule a Comprehensive Evaluation
If not already covered during your initial visit, book your annual physical/comprehensive exam to establish a health baseline. This visit allows your PCP to assess your current health status and discuss any concerns or goals you may have. It’s an opportunity to build a trusting relationship and set the foundation for ongoing care.
Maintain Regular Appointments
Consistent visits with your PCP are vital for early detection and prevention of potential health issues. Regular check-ups allow for monitoring of existing conditions and adjustments to treatment plans as necessary. Staying proactive with your health can lead to better outcomes and a higher quality of life.
Communicate Openly
Effective communication is key to receiving optimal care. Share any changes in your health, lifestyle, or medications with your PCP. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns; a good PCP will value your input and work collaboratively with you.
Utilize Preventive Services
Take advantage of preventive services offered by your PCP, such as vaccinations, screenings, and wellness advice. Engaging in preventive care can help you avoid illnesses and detect conditions before they become serious.
By following these steps, you can build a strong, collaborative relationship with your primary care physician, paving the way for a healthier future.
Find a Doctor Your Family Can Trust at Think.
Your Primary Care physician is at the center of your circle of care. At think, our Primary Care physicians are general practitioners who specialize in Family Medicine and Internal Medicine. Functioning as your advocate and primary healthcare provider, they can help you with a diverse mix of issues, ranging from something as minor as a cold, to something harder to manage, like long-term or chronic illness.
Having a hard time picking who to see? We understand finding the right provider can take time and can even be overwhelming if you’re just getting started. We offer a diverse team of over 30 primary care physicians and providers in one location. Browse our physician bios on our Meet Your Doctor page. Then, give our Welcome Center staff a call at 402.506.9049 to help you select the right provider for you. We are glad to help and make your selection process as easy and stress-free as possible.
If you live with chronic or multiple illnesses, you may qualify for our Care Coordination program. This program is designed to improve patient outcomes through active teamwork between physicians and specialists at think. If you qualify for care coordination, or if you simply have a need for one of our onsite specialists, your Primary Care physician will work on your behalf to coordinate a care plan for you that meets your needs and works well alongside any existing treatments.
Having a Primary Care physician you feel comfortable with is the key to a positive healthcare experience. We are proud to work with a large, diverse group of Primary Care physicians and are confident that one of them is the perfect fit for your family. Choosing a think PCP also means you’ll have access to:
- Onsite Specialty Services: Access to various specialties such as rheumatology, behavioral health, physical therapy, and podiatry ensures comprehensive care under one roof.
- Preventive Screenings: Regular screenings for conditions like diabetes, cancer, and depression aid in early detection and management.
- Extended Access to Care: With expanded hours, a walk-in clinic, and a 24/7 on-call nurse, we provide continuous support to address your health concerns promptly.
Choosing the right primary care physician is a foundational step in achieving and maintaining optimal health. By understanding the different types of primary care providers and considering your unique health needs, you can establish a trusting and effective partnership with the right Primary Care healthcare provider for you. At think, we are committed to supporting you through this journey with our comprehensive and patient-centered services.
PARTNER WITH THINK FOR YOUR HEALTH JOURNEY
If you’re ready to take control of your whole-person health, schedule an appointment with one of our dedicated primary care providers. Not sure who to see? Explore our Meet Your Doctor page to learn more about our think physicians and call 402.506.9049 for help narrowing down your selections and scheduling your first appointment.
Already know who you want to see? To schedule an appointment, you can visit our self-scheduling page or call 402.506.9049.
Whether you’re managing chronic conditions or seeking preventive care, our world-class care is here to support you every step of the way!