Whether you have recently changed insurance providers, moved to a new city, or are in the market for a new medical practitioner, selecting a primary care physician is an important part of maintaining your health. Locating the right doctor may take some time, but with a little effort, you can find a physician that suits your health requirements, insurance, and personal preferences.

Find the right primary care physician with these five tips:

Check with Your Insurance

If you have insurance —  whether through an employer or self-provided — your first step should be contacting your provider to determine which doctors are in-network. Call and request a list of physicians in your area or hop online and use your provider’s network tool to see what physicians are available.

Get Referrals

Contact friends, coworkers, and family members to find out if they can recommend a quality physician. Word of mouth is often the best way to find quality products and services. Why should a primary care physician be any different?

Confirm with the Doctor

Insurance companies tend to have dynamic relationships with doctor’s offices. As such, it’s important to verify coverage before scheduling an appointment. Contact the clinic or office and request to speak with a billing specialist regarding accepted insurance.

Check for Board Certification

Physicians certified by The American Board of Medical Specialties® — ABMS — have graduated medical school, completed their residency requirements, are licensed by a state medical board, and have passed all required ABMS exams. Board certified physicians are also expected to attend continued training and education courses, ensuring they stay up-to-date on the latest standards and practices. Visit Certification Matters to determine whether a potential doctor is certified.

Check Reviews

Client testimonials are a valuable asset in understanding a physician’s bedside manner. Keep an eye out for indicators of poor treatment or malpractice. Obviously, you’ll want to note glowing reviews as well. Patients with poor or perfect experiences are motivated to write reviews.

Whether you’re due for an annual physical exam or suspect you may have a chronic illness, the primary care doctors at Patient Choice Medical Care in Hamden, CT, are available to help. Visit their medical center online or call (203) 535-0262 to schedule an appointment.