Choosing a primary care physician isn’t just about seeing who’s available to see you when you need one. It’s a decision that needs to be planned ahead and well thought out. After all, your primary physician will be the one you go to most often for your medical needs. So, you have to pick one that feels right to you.

1. Pick a Doctor That Can Meet Your Needs

Some people just pick the first doctor they see on the list. But the best way to choose a primary care doctor is to look at your own medical history and start to find the doctor that can meet your needs.

By thinking about your own medical history, you can look up doctors in your area, call them and ask about their experience with your specific issues. You should also ask about their office hours and fees.

The first step is looking for a doctor that is accepting new patients, someone you feel comfortable talking to, and one that can address your needs.

Be sure to ask if there is a charge for the first appointment. A lot of primary care doctors will offer a free first appointment. They want to get to know you and your needs and want to make sure they will be the ones you want to see for all of your healthcare needs.

2. Factor in Logistics

It’s important to think about your day-to-day schedule when choosing your primary care physician. When and where will you be able to schedule your appointments? If you don’t have a car and need to take public transportation to get there, what will be your wait time?

You also have to consider how long it takes you to get to and from your doctor’s office. If you don’t have a car and take public transportation, you’ll need to make sure it’s not going to negatively affect your schedule. If it’s going to take you 30 minutes to get to the doctor’s office, you’re not going to be able to make it to work on time.

Think about your schedule, where you can get to by public transportation, and the wait times that could negatively affect your job or other obligations.

3. Listen to Your Gut Instincts

One of the biggest ways to choose a primary care doctor is to just follow your gut instincts. When you meet with the doctor, try your best to listen to your inner voice and pay attention to your body.

Does this doctor give you good vibes, or do you feel rushed and like you’re more of a number than a patient?

You have to take this step seriously. Your gut instincts can tell you a lot about the state of your health and if you’re getting the right treatment. Listen to your body and how you feel when talking to your primary doctor.

This step can help identify whether you’re getting good treatment. For example, if you go to a new doctor and they give you letters with your prescriptions after each visit, you’re not getting the care you need.

You want to see a doctor that takes the time to explain what’s going on in your body and the reason behind each treatment.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, choosing a primary care doctor is a big decision, one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s one of the most important choices you can make for your health. So, make sure to do your research, and don’t just look at the first doctor you find on the list. Take your time to find the right doctor that can meet your needs.

Get the quality medical care you deserve from Aspen Medical Center. We are a primary care physician in Santa Fe, offering state-of-the-art primary care and urgent care services. Our medical staff is trained to care for people of all ages, from infants to the elderly and everyone in between. Check in online now!