Choosing the right doctor and clinic isn’t always easy. The primary care physician is the doctor that you will see the most, so it is vital that you like the office and the team. We go to our primary care physician for everything from a sore throat to regular headaches.

But we also need to be able to trust them when it comes to getting the big things diagnosed as well.

It isn’t uncommon for people to find a good doctor to stay with them for the duration of their lives, and in keeping with that, their children and other family members might choose that one, too.

Either way, the relationship between you, your primary physician, and the office is important, so selecting the right one for you matters in the short and long term.

How to choose a great doctor

Network

Your insurance will mostly dictate the choices that you have. Each insurance company has a range of options for you to choose from. Most of the time, there will be an agreement between the clinic and the insurance for preferential rates. These are called in-network and will reduce the amount you must pay out of pocket.

Location

For a regular check-up, traveling a little further to see your doctor isn’t usually an issue. However, when you have booked an appointment because you are unwell or your child is unwell, traveling further can be a nightmare.

Opening Times

For many full-time workers and busy parents, the only time they can get to the doctor is evenings and weekends. This can be a significant deciding factor – so consider the most likely scenarios and find opening hours or emergency hours that suit your needs.

Health Needs

For those with specific health needs or with children who do this, it is going to be a significant factor. Most of the time, a generalist can care for almost anything. However, for elderly treatment, some women’s health, degenerative diseases, and others, you should ask if anyone can handle these needs. Keep in mind that often, it is better in these cases to have instant access to medication, so an on-site dispensary is a huge bonus.

Referrals

When you’re new to an area, it can be tricky to find the best clinic; it is a good idea to ask for referrals from neighbors, parents at the school, and co-workers. You can also ask other healthcare professionals and your insurance company for advice on your specific needs. Search online for reviews and ratings, too – and even reach out to local community groups for advice.

Face-to-Face

Before committing, ask for a face-to-face meeting. You can get a feel for the team in the office and talk with the doctor who will care for you. You can discuss your needs, any treatments and medications you are having now or hope to have in the future and see if your ideas align with long-term care or chronic illness management.

But there is a lot of good stuff that you can do at home to support your other health needs: Take Your Health Into Your Own Hands With These Tips.