There are two main types of doctors: primary care providers (PCPs) and specialists. PCPs provide your regular check-ups and are often who to visit first when you become concerned about a symptom or problem. Specialists handle particular issues that require specific knowledge and training.
It is helpful to have a PCP who:
- You trust
- Knows your medical history
- Ensures you receive routine Preventive Care Preventive care is care intended to prevent illness, detect medical conditions, and keep you healthy. Medicare Part B covers many preventive services, such as routine checkups, flu shots, and tests like prostate cancer screenings and yearly mammograms. , including screenings and healthy lifestyle counseling
- Explains your treatment options in clear language
- Recommends and coordinates your care from specialists
- Keeps track of your medications, including ones prescribed by other providers
- Helps you make informed decisions
- Helps you feel comfortable and heard
You may also want specialists who have some or all of the above attributes.
Below is a list of questions you can ask to help find the right Provider See Health Care Provider. .
- Does the doctor take my insurance (participating provider for Original Medicare Original Medicare, also known as Traditional Medicare, is the fee-for-service health insurance program offered through the federal government, which pays providers directly for the services you receive. Almost all doctors and hospitals in the U.S. accept Original Medicare. , or in-network for Medicare Advantage Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, Medicare Private Health Plan, or Medicare Managed Care Plan, allows you to get Medicare coverage from a private health plan that contracts with the federal government. All Medicare Advantage Plans must offer at least the same benefits as Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), but can do so with different rules, costs, and coverage restrictions. Plans typically offer Part D drug coverage as part of Medicare Advantage benefits. Medicare Advantage Plans include Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plans, Special Needs Plans (SNPs), and Medicare Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs). )?
- Is the doctor taking new patients?
- Is it easy to get an appointment?
- Is the doctor board-certified? If yes, in what field?
- What percent of the doctor’s patients are older or have disabilities?
- Should I consider seeing a doctor specially trained to manage the health needs of older adults (geriatrician)? Or a different kind of Specialist A specialist is a doctor who specializes in treating only a certain part of the body or a certain condition. For instance, a cardiologist only treats people with heart problems. who suits my particular needs? Keep in mind that general care physicians and internists who work regularly with older patients or patients with disabilities can also make good PCPs.
- Does the doctor have a relationship with hospitals and other facilities I prefer?
- Does the doctor explain things clearly?
- Does the doctor listen to my concerns?
- Is the doctor’s office easy to get to?
- Are the doctor’s office hours convenient for me?
- Is the doctor willing to speak to my Caregiver A caregiver is anyone who provides help and support to someone who is either temporarily or permanently unable to function or someone who can function but not optimally. Most caregivers are unpaid, and are often a family member, friend, or neighbor. Formal caregivers are paid care providers or volunteers associated with a service system. about my care?
- Does the doctor make house calls?
- Is the doctor available after hours or on weekends?
- Are there doctors available who speak my native language (if not English)?
Make sure to do your research. Ask for referrals to doctors where possible. You may also want to see if you can speak briefly to the doctor before requesting a formal appointment.