When was the last time you went to a doctor for a checkup? Recent studies suggest for many Americans, it may have been a long time. As many as 25 percent of Americans do not have a primary care provider (PCP). 

What exactly is primary care? 

Primary care is typically your first point of contact to health care. Primary care can generally be divided into two areas: evaluation and treatment of active illness (whether chronic or urgent/episodic), and appropriate preventive care to avoid future health problems. 

This care is generally given by a provider trained in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics or OB-GYN. Physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and other clinicians may provide primary care services. Having a PCP is your first step toward managing your health care. 

Why is it important for me to have a PCP? 

A PCP and his or her team serves as a “home base” for your medical care. This provider ideally knows you and your health history, such as allergies, family health history, health conditions and past medical procedures, so focus can be applied to the important issues of the visit. 

You will visit this PCP for most of your medical needs such as routine checkups or sick visits. This PCP will help with your preventive screenings as well. Your PCP is also there to address any of your health concerns and help you manage chronic diseases. 

Primary care also serves as a place to seek medical help other than an emergency room for nonemergent problems. It is cheaper to visit a doctor’s office than an emergency room for nonemergency reasons. Here’s a helpful guide for how to find the right care. 

Who needs a PCP? 

Everyone from children to older adults needs a PCP to have access to medical care for management of any type of health concern. It is important to remember regular checkups may focus on different health factors and conditions throughout the stages in your life. 

Do young, healthy people need a PCP? Why? 

Yes. Even young, healthy people need a PCP for access to care for urgent or unplanned health care needs and appropriate preventive maintenance checks at the recommended frequency. 

It doesn’t matter what age you are. Everyone can benefit from a PCP who can manage your care, whether you are a millennial or a senior, mostly healthy, or in need of disease management.

What can I expect from a routine checkup? 

In a routine situation, you can expect to review height/weight (body mass index), blood pressure and vaccinations, such as influenza, COVID-19, tetanus, HPV and others. You can also expect to potentially have some basic lab work done, depending on your age and other factors. Basic lab work may include checking blood glucose and cholesterol.

How do I find a PCP? 

Start asking your family and friends about their providers. This will help you find someone you can trust because the name comes from a reliable source. 

Then check the physician list on My Health Toolkit^® to see who is in your network and is accepting new patients. 

You can also call the number on the back of your health insurance card for help with finding a provider. 

What should I consider when picking a PCP? 

Think about what is important to you. Would you be more comfortable with a male or female PCP? Do you want a practice that can communicate with you digitally or outside of normal office hours? Do you want a practice that is close to your home? 

Today you might find a provider who will text with you if you need a prescription refill. Or one who has an online patient portal that gives you access anytime to your medical information. Some providers use telemedicine services so that you can see them from anywhere. 

You might also find out what other services the practice offers, such as care navigators or case managers. 

After you’ve narrowed down your list, check the providers’ credentials by looking online to see what they are certified in. When researching certification, also check to see if they have any special interests listed.

You should also know that you can change your PCP if you find that you aren’t satisfied with the first PCP you picked. If you are thinking of changing your PCP, make sure the new PCP you select is accepting new patients and is in network. 

How often should I see a PCP? 

Frequency of visits depends on many factors, including age, medical history and types of medicine you may take. In general, adults under the age of 50 with no known health problems may consider a health maintenance visit every three years or so. Those over 50 should go annually. Even if you do not have any complaints or problems, this will provide an opportunity to discuss preventive care. 

What if I don’t trust providers? 

PCPs are here to help you, not only for screening, diagnosing and treating conditions but also to assist you in navigating your health care experience if needed. He or she serves as a medical professional who knows you. It is also important to remember technology has really come a long way. Now it is common to communicate electronically via telemedicine video, patient portals, emails and text messaging to reduce barriers to quality care.

For help finding a PCP, use our Find Care tool.