5 ways your primary care provider supports you
A primary care provider (PCP) is your main doctor for checkups and care. Here’s why having the right PCP matters — and how to choose one.
From first checkups to ongoing care, a primary care provider (PCP) helps keep you and your family healthy. Adults may see a family doctor, while kids often see a pediatrician. But everyone benefits from having a provider they trust.
Haven’t seen your PCP in a while? Or looking for someone new? Now is a great time to make an appointment or find a provider who fits your needs. You can search your plan’s provider directory online.
Here are five ways a PCP can support you — and tips to help you choose the right one.
1. They are a trusted partner in health
You should feel comfortable asking your PCP anything. No worry is too small, and no question is too silly. Your PCP knows your health history and can help you get the care you need.
Older kids should feel safe talking to their doctor about hard topics. This can include feelings, drugs or sex. Their PCP can help them learn to care for their body and mind.
2. They can help you manage a chronic condition
If you or your child has a long-term condition like asthma, diabetes or high blood pressure, your PCP can help. They work with your other providers to help you create and follow your care plan.
Your PCP can also help you manage your medicines. If you take several prescriptions, they can help you take them safely and correctly.
3. They can help prevent health problems
Your PCP doesn’t just treat you when you’re sick — they help you stay healthy. Regular checkups and screenings can find problems early, before you feel sick. Getting care early can help stop bigger problems later.
Kids also need regular checkups to track growth and learning. Their PCP helps them stay up to date on vaccines and screenings to support their physical and mental health.
Aproveche al máximo sus beneficios
4. They can help guide you through your health care
Health care can feel confusing. Your PCP helps make it easier to understand. They can help by:
- Referring you to other doctors when needed
- Helping you understand your test results
- Making sure all parts of your care work together
5. They provide well-rounded care
Your PCP cares about all parts of your health. They can help with:
- Mental health
- Healthy food choices
- Exercise
- Wellness goals
They can even help you get support for things like housing, childcare, food access and more.
Your child’s PCP can also help with:
- Keeping your baby safe at home, in the car and while sleeping
- Breastfeeding, formula feeding or dealing with a picky eater
- Tracking your child’s growth and development
How often should you see your PCP? Check out this article to get the most out of your yearly checkup or well-child visit.
How to find a PCP
Don’t have a PCP or want a new one? It’s okay to try more than one provider.
You can look for one in your plan’s provider directory online. Or call Member Services to have a copy of the directory mailed to you.
PCPs can be:
- Family doctors (MD/DO)
- Internal medicine physicians
- Nurse practitioners (NPs)
- Physician assistants (PAs)
- Ob/Gyns (often the PCP for women)
- Pediatricians (the PCP for children)
You can also get care at:
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Clinics that take Medicaid. They are often in rural or underserved areas.
- Indian Health Service (IHS) clinics: Clinics where American Indian and Alaska Native members can get care.
When choosing a PCP, ask these questions to find one who works for you:
- Is the office easy to get to?
- Are the hours good for your schedule?
- Do they offer telehealth visits?
- Do people in the office speak your language?
- Is the staff kind and helpful?
Try meeting a few providers. Choose someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
