Choosing The Right Primary Care Doctor For You

Your health is important, which makes choosing the right doctor a big decision and a very personal one. Here are some tips to find the best doctor — for you:

1. Word of mouth

When looking for a doctor, you can start by asking family and friends for recommendations.  However, keep in mind that everyone has different ideas of what makes a “good” doctor. Ask questions about the things that are important to you – such as the thoroughness of the doctor, if he or she explains things in a way that’s easy to understand, their ability to put you at ease. This will help ensure that you find a doctor who fits your expectations.

2. Insurance

Another important step is making sure your doctor accepts your insurance. This information is usually available online on the practice’s website. If you can’t find this information or are unsure, call to confirm.

Also, be sure to stay up-to-date with this information, since physician and insurance partnerships can change from one year to the next.

3. The provider’s certification

Look for a provider who is board certified. This is an extra certification that providers choose to obtain to reflect their commitment to life-long learning and quality care for their patients. You can easily confirm this information by searching online with the correct specialty board. Board certification means that the physician has passed a test (often times a reoccurring test) to demonstrate proficiency in their specialty.

Whether you’ve moved to a new city or are looking to switch doctors, choosing a primary care provider can have a huge impact on your life. The best provider for you is one with whom you have the best rapport — one you can trust and feel you can rely upon.

UCF Health offers primary care from its team of medical experts from offices in East Orlando and Lake Nona.

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Weekly Health Tips are brought to you by UCF Health, the College of Medicine’s physician practice. Offering primary and specialty care under one roof, UCF Health treats patients age 16 and up in primary care and age 18 and up for specialty care. Most major insurance plans are accepted. Two locations are now open: the original in East Orlando at Quadrangle and University boulevards just blocks from the main UCF campus, and the newest one in Medical City at Narcoossee Road and Tavistock Lakes Boulevard. Information for both facilities can be found at UCFHealth.com, or call (407) 266-DOCS to schedule an appointment.

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• check-ups choosing a doctor doctor visit family doctor family medicine internal medicine primary care primary care doctor