Whether you’re versed in online dating or remember the days of goin’ steady, the idea of finding the right primary care partner can set off heart palpitations. You want someone trustworthy, capable and convenient. But it’s not like you can just peruse a list of profiles and swipe right when one seems like a match. Or can you? With the Roper St. Francis Healthcare Find a Doctor website, connecting to a primary care provider, whether a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant, can be as simple as checking yes or no.
“The most important thing about a primary care provider is to have one,” says Dr. Bob Oliverio, Roper St. Francis Healthcare’s Chief Medical Officer. He recommends establishing that relationship before you actually need one. “Find someone who understands your health goals now, so when a need arises, you can be seen quickly.”
We asked Dr. Oliverio to share his best tips for finding the right match.
Know what you want.
Like any relationship, choosing a provider starts with understanding what you need. Dr. Oliverio suggests considering:
✔ Specialty: Primary care includes a broad range of providers. Pediatricians treat children; family physicians see all ages; internists focus on adults. Some providers, including physician assistants and nurse practitioners, offer the same high-quality care and can handle everything from wellness visits to chronic disease management. Geriatricians focus on aging-related concerns and extensivists specialize in transitioning patients from hospital to home.
✔ Convenience: Think about location, scheduling and virtual visit options. “If you don’t have complex medical needs but want to check in occasionally, a provider with telehealth access may be a great fit,” says Dr. Oliverio.
✔ Goals: Your primary care provider can help with everything from managing blood pressure to developing a wellness plan. “Many providers have special interests, such as nutrition or sports medicine, that may align with your goals,” he adds.
Play the field.
Visit Find a Doctor to search for a provider based on your criteria. The site allows you to filter by specialty, location, gender, languages spoken, insurances accepted and whether the provider is accepting new patients.
Get to know them.
Once you have a list of potential providers, dig deeper:
Check online profiles. On RSFH.com, many providers have personal statements and video introductions, giving you insight into their approach and personality.
Read patient ratings. Sites like Healthgrades.com and RateMDs.com provide reviews.
Ask friends. “Word of mouth is still the most common way patients find us,” says Dr. Oliverio.
Call the office. It’s reasonable to ask which provider best matches your needs.
Verify credentials. Board-certified physicians can be checked at the ABIM (internal medicine), ABFM (family medicine) or ABP (pediatrics). NPs and PAs are nationally certified and meet rigorous licensing requirements.
Meet up.
Your new patient appointment is the true compatibility test. “You’re looking for a long-term relationship in primary care,” says Dr. Oliverio. “Your first visit should feel like a conversation, not a checklist.” Whether you see a physician, PA or NP, expect them to ask about your health history, current concerns, medications, lifestyle and barriers to care.
Commit.
Healthcare can be complex, but your provider is your guide. “You wouldn’t climb Everest without a sherpa, and you shouldn’t navigate your health without a primary care provider,” says Dr. Oliverio. “Whether it’s a doctor, PA or NP, having a trusted provider is key to your long-term well-being.”