It can be difficult enough to find a good primary care doctor in your own city, let alone when you move to a new state. Whether you're moving for a new job, to be closer to family, or for any other reason, here are some tips to help you choose a new primary care doctor when you move.
Check Your Health Insurance Plan's Provider Network
The first step is to check your health insurance plan's provider network. Most health insurance plans have a 'network' of doctors they have contracted with to provide care for their members. You will usually get the best rates if you use doctors who are in-network. To find out which doctors are in your plan's network, you can typically go to the health insurance company's website and search for providers in your area or talk to your company's human resources department.
Ask for Recommendations From Your New Co-Workers
Ask around for recommendations from your co-workers who live in the area. Even if they don't have the same health insurance plan as you do, they might be able to point you in the right direction of a good doctor who takes your particular insurance.
Look Up Doctors Online
In addition to getting recommendations from those you know, another way to find out more about a potential family doctor is by looking them up online. Most doctor's offices these days have a web presence where you can read doctors' bios, see their areas of expertise, and even read reviews from past patients, all of which can help determine whether or not a particular doctor would be a good fit for you.
Consider Your Specific Healthcare Needs
When choosing a primary care doctor, it's also important to consider your specific healthcare needs. For example, if you have chronic health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, you'll want to ensure that your new doctor has experience treating patients with these conditions. Additionally, if you're pregnant or plan on getting pregnant, you may want to choose an OB/GYN as your family doctor.
Make Sure the Office is Conveniently Located
Another factor to consider when choosing a primary care doctor is the office location. You'll want to make sure it's conveniently located so that it's easy for you to get there when you need to see the doctor. If possible, try to choose an office that's close to either your home or work so that it will be easy to get there.
Call the Office and Ask Questions
Call each office and ask questions about things like appointment availability and office hours. This is also a great way to get an idea of what it would be like working with this particular team of healthcare professionals on an ongoing basis.
Selecting a family doctor in a new state doesn't have to be difficult. If you know what to look for and where to start your search. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find a great new family doctor in no time. For more information on a primary doctor for you, contact a professional near you.
