Choosing and visiting a primary care provider (PCP) is a great way to support you and your family’s health. Research shows that people who have a relationship with a primary care provider are more likely to receive high-value care, have better access to care, and report a higher satisfaction with their health care. Your PCP is the provider you visit for most medical needs, including preventive screenings, care for chronic conditions, and non-emergency illnesses. Your PCP is the person you speak to about your health questions and concerns, both mental and physical. They will also be the one to refer you to a specialist, if needed. Seeing your PCP regularly may help you avoid more costly care, such as an emergency room visit. A PCP can be a doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner and includes a wide variety of specialties like family practice, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, and geriatrics.

Read this blog from Balanced You to learn how to select a PCP according to your health plan. Read more.