How to Change Primary Care Physicians: 6 Helpful Tips

Whether you’re moving, changing insurance plans, or want to find someone with whom you’re more comfortable, there are many reasons you may consider finding a new primary care physician (PCP).

PCPs play a vital role in your well-being, so finding the right match is essential. If you’re wondering how to change primary care physicians, here are six tips to follow to help you find the right one.

1. Find a Doctor With the Right Expertise

Your health is as unique as you are, so finding a doctor with the right specialization is key. If you require management for chronic conditions or need care for ongoing health concerns, look for a PCP with experience handling your specific ailment or who can refer you to a specialist. Even if you’re just looking for a doctor to handle preventative check-ups and general health concerns, conducting thorough research on the different types of PCPs is essential.

Some of the areas of primary care include:

• Family Medicine
• Internal Medicine
• General Practice
• Pediatrics
• Obstetrics and Gynecology

2. Ask for Referrals

Reach out to friends and family members about their experiences with their PCPs. Visiting a healthcare professional recommended by someone you know may help you feel a sense of reassurance.

If you feel comfortable, you can even ask your current doctor for suggestions. This may be especially helpful if you’re relocating and don’t have connections in your new area yet. Online reviews can also offer valuable insight if you’re unsure about asking your physician.

3. Check Your Insurance Plan

If you have insurance, make sure you’re looking at in-network doctors. These are the ones covered by your plan. Doing so will help you maximize your benefits while avoiding unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. To simplify the process of finding a network doctor in your area, many insurance providers have “find a doctor” tools on their websites. Utilizing this tool can promote a more seamless transition between PCPs.

4. Consider Logistics

Is the new office you’re considering close to home? What hours are they open? Do they offer both virtual and in-person appointments? Most importantly, are they accepting new patients?

While asking for recommendations and searching online for doctors in your area is a great start, it’s not a good idea to pick one without further research. You need to dive deeper and personally assess each choice to determine if it fits all your circumstances.

5. Find a New Provider Before Leaving Your Current One

The last thing you want is to be left without a physician if an unexpected medical issue arises. Start your search for a new PCP as soon as possible so that you can ensure continuity of care and a more seamless transition. It may take some time to schedule an appointment and become established with your new doctor, so don’t leave it to chance. Planning ahead will help prioritize and secure your well-being.

6. Request Your Medical Records

You’ll need to obtain physical or electronic copies of your medical records to hand over to your new provider. This should include archives of past illnesses and surgeries, test results, medications, allergies, and more. Thanks to current technology, it’s pretty easy. Typically, all you need to do is sign a form, and your current PCP will send them to your new physician for you.

Primary Care Services in the Greenwood, IN, Area

Ready to make the switch to a new doctor? Supro Direct is a personalized primary care office with experience serving patients of all ages. We’re devoted to providing our patients with quality healthcare, which is why we offer short wait times, same-day appointments, and 24/7 physician access. Request an appointment today or call our office at 317-300-7424 to learn more!