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Finding the right primary care for you
Surveys show that people who have a primary care provider find more satisfaction with their health care. That's why it's important to find a qualified medical professional who suits your style and needs.
An ongoing relationship
A primary care provider is someone with whom you can discuss your background, lifestyle and, when relevant, beliefs. Once informed, he or she can work with you to address health problems or direct you to the right specialty care at the right time.
Develop a relationship with your provider before getting sick. This makes it easier to communicate and get your needs met if a problem occurs.
Kinds of primary care providers
Common kinds of primary care providers include the following:
- Family physicians are doctors who specialize in the general health needs of people of all ages. They are trained in six broad areas: community medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry and surgery. Some family physicians do not provide obstetric care in their offices.
- Internists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in adults.
- Nurse practitioners are registered nurses (RNs) with advanced training in a special area, such as family practice, geriatrics, pediatrics or women’s health. They also focus on how health issues emotionally affect patients and their families. You may choose this provider for preventative care, routine exams, illness or injury.
- Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in the general health needs of children, from birth through about 16 years.
- Physician assistants take medical histories, examine patients, order and interpret lab tests and x-rays, and prescribe medicines, as delegated and supervised by a physician.
Some women choose an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) as their main provider. An OB/GYN specializes in the care of the female reproductive system, including pregnancy and childbirth.
Main considerations
When selecting a primary care provider, consider the following:
- Training and experience: Find out where the he or she studied, the length of that training and where he or she has practiced medicine.
- Accessibility: Ask who covers for the provider when he or she is out of the office. Find out who should be called and what hospital is used for emergencies.
- Prevention: Is he or she concerned about your lifestyle? Note whether he or she asks about your alcohol, tobacco and drug use; eating and exercise habits; health risks at work and home; or sexual activity.
Helpful resources
For help choosing a primary care provider, contact a customer service representative at your health insurance company.
For information about providers in Minnesota, visit our doctor finder or call Allina Physician Referral at 612-262-3333 or 1-800-877-7878.
Related Links
Making the most of your doctor's visit
Using health information from the Web
Source: Allina Medical Clinic Administration; Joy Roeglin, RN, voice specialist, Allina Physician Referral and Class Registration
First published: 07/29/99
Last updated: 12/01/2005
Reviewed by: Paul Kleeberg, MD, medical director, Allina.com