You will see your primary care doctor for most of your medical needs—when you’re sick, for your check-ups, and when you have health questions or concerns. If your health plan requires referrals, your primary care doctor will also be the person who refers you to specialists.

Nurse practitioners and physician assistants also serve as primary care providers, so you may choose to see one of these provider types or a medical doctor. Whoever you see, it’s important you have someone you feel comfortable with. Here are five things you should keep in mind as you look for your primary care provider.

#1 Make sure your provider is in-network.
Most health plans contract with a specific list of doctors and hospitals. You will pay much less to see one of those providers, called “in-network” for insurance purposes. You can find out if a provider is in-network by contacting your health plan or calling your doctor’s office.

#2 Find a provider who will meet your needs.
There are different types of primary care providers to choose from. Family practice doctors treat the entire family. Internists treat adults. Pediatricians treat infants, children and teenagers. If you have a particular condition, such as diabetes, look for physicians with extensive experience managing your condition. Also, think about whether you would prefer a doctor of the same gender or age.

#3 Consider reviews and recommendations. You might feel more comfortable visiting a doctor who is recommended by someone you know or by researching them online and reading their reviews.

#4 Think about convenience. It makes sense to find a doctor close to where you live or work and one who has office hours that work for your schedule. Most clinics have websites where you can find out whether they have weekend hours and convenient parking. You may want to ask if the clinic has an online system for scheduling appointments, requesting prescription refills, communicating with your care team via email, and accessing your health records online.

#5 Meet the provider. An office visit and face-to-face meeting can help you make sure you’re comfortable with your choice. Do you like the office, the physician, nurses and staff? Is the provider someone you’d feel comfortable with, who will spend enough time with you and who seems committed to helping you manage any chronic conditions you may have?

With LifeStream Family Medicine, you can receive primary care for a low monthly fee without copays or hurried visits. We remove the hassle of visiting the doctor by giving you the access and discounts you need in a timely manner. We are a family, locally, and Christian-owned healthcare provider dedicated to whole-person care.