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The Doctor Is In
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Choosing a doctor is one of the most important health care decisions you can make. Never before have people had so many kinds of doctors and other health professionals to choose from. The relationship you have with your doctor greatly influences the health decisions you make and, ultimately, your health.
While your doctor is an expert on medical care, you are the expert on you. By partnering with your doctor, you can choose medical options that best fit your values, beliefs and lifestyle.
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Finding the Right Partner |
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Choosing a Primary Care Doctor
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Finding the Right Partner
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A primary care physician (PCP) such as a family medicine physician or an internist who knows and understands your needs can be your most valuable health partner. A host of specialists who work on separate health problems complete your health team, but it is your PCP who typically sees your whole health picture and has a good understanding of what’s important to you.
A family practitioner, also called family medicine physician, is a medical doctor who specializes in the total health care of the individual and the family. A family practitioner can diagnose and treat a variety of health conditions and diseases for people of all ages and both sexes.
An internist is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of adults. People can choose an internist as their primary doctor for regular checkups and for treating illness. Internists can also specialize in areas such as allergy, cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, infectious disease and rheumatology.
First Things First
Before you select a doctor, call or visit his or her office. Address your personal health concerns and ask if the doctor is accepting new patients, what hospital the doctor uses, if your doctor accepts your health plan, and if your doctor will work in partnership with you.
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Learn More About Your Health Choices
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The links below take you to our Health Library, where you can find more details on preparing for your visit and making the most of your health care choices.
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Find out how to choose a physician who is right for you!
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