[googley]

I was wondering how people choose a new PCP. I've been seeing the doctor at the student health clinic up until now. But I have insurance now and have to pick a PCP. I was wondering how people have picked their PCPs. I ended up with one before because it was the only one accepting patients at the clinic wanted to see my doctor at. But right now i don't really have any limits on who I see. I was wondering how to pick and what things are important to look at.

[Raindropvampire]

I went online and researched the ones in my area that were accepting new patients. I also went and just asked if I could get a minute of their time just to meet and say hi. See if I liked their personality. I also talked to people in the waiting room. Asked how long they usually waited did they like it there that sort of stuff. It was also important for me to have a doctor that had same day appointments.

[-jimi-]

The one I have right now is fine I think. I didn't have a choice when I signed up with the clinic. They gave me the one available.

[sconnie892]

After just having undergone a less than pleasant experience with a new provider (an NP) I would say do as much research as you can. Read the website bios (even though they usually don't tell you much) and talk to people you know. If you can actually talk to the doctor before decide to get an idea of his/her personality, I would say that is the best.

I would also say think about things that might matter to you: gender, availability of appointments, approach to care (are they open to alternative treatments if that's something you are interested in), office hours. Also check which hospitals they are affiliated with. This might depend on the type of insurance you have.