Ever wonder how to find the right healthcare provider? With so many options available, making this important decision might feel overwhelming. Let’s break it down into manageable steps and understand what really matters when deciding who to see.

Mount Nittany Health’s Dr. Tania Zuniga shares valuable information on how to choose a primary care provider that best fits your needs. “The most important factor patients often overlook when choosing a primary care provider is compatibility,” she said.

Understanding what makes a great primary care provider

Finding the right primary care provider is more than choosing someone with the right credentials. It’s about connecting with a healthcare professional who takes the time to understand your unique health story and works with you to achieve your wellness goals.

In any relationship, communication is important—a patient-provider relationship is no different. “From my perspective, what makes for a successful long-term patient-provider relationship is open and honest communication between the patient and the provider,” Dr. Zuniga shared.

Your provider should listen carefully to your concerns, explain things in ways you can understand, and help you make informed decisions about your care. Primary care providers aren’t just there when you are sick—they help you stay well through preventative care and early detection of potential health issues. Whether you work with a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, you’re partnering with a highly qualified professional who has completed extensive training to provide comprehensive care.

Family medicine providers are available for more than just sick visits and physicals. They have a wide range of knowledge and experience. “I wish more patients would ask how we can help them outside of just doing physicals and sick visits. I don’t think patients know that we do more than just physicals and sick visits,” Dr. Zuniga shared. “Some of us, particularly in family medicine, can do some women’s health, do sports medicine, some skin procedures, and at times, we can also advocate for our patients.”

Key factors to consider

If you are looking to switch primary care providers, there are some criteria you will want to consider. Your comfort is key to whether your PCP is a good fit. “Ask yourself, ‘Will I feel comfortable speaking with my primary care provider about my health?’” Dr. Zuniga suggested.

Finding a conveniently located provider matters more than you might think. You will want to consider how easily you can reach the office from both home and work. If your provider’s office is too far away, you may find it more difficult to keep regular appointments or seek care when needed.

Every provider has their own style and approach to care. Some may practice a more traditional approach, while others may prioritize preventative care. Consider their communication style and how it aligns with your preferences. Do you understand them when they explain things? Do they take time to answer your questions?

Financial considerations should also be made. Check which providers are in your insurance network to avoid unexpected costs. Look into their office hours to determine if they align with your schedule—do they offer early morning, evening, or weekend appointments to accommodate your work schedule? Do they offer telehealth options to provide additional flexibility?

Making your first appointment count

If you are a new patient to the practice, your records are an important part of the first appointment. “Patients can best prepare for their first visit with a new provider by having their old medical records transferred,” Dr. Zuniga explained. “They can easily do this by signing a release of records when making the new appointment.”

“An early arrival to their appointment is also very helpful,” she continued. “This allows them to fill out forms and for any time that nursing may need to spend with them.”

Your first appointment sets the foundation for your healthcare relationship. “It is beneficial if they bring in their medications or a list of their medications and their medical history just in case their medical records have not been sent in from their prior medical provider,” Dr. Zuniga said. “If they have concerns, it would not hurt to have a list of questions or concerns they can share with their new provider. This can help the visit move along more smoothly.”

Building a long-term relationship

The best healthcare happens when patients and providers develop trust over time. Your provider learns your medical history, preferences, concerns, and health goals. This deeper understanding leads to more personalized care recommendations and often helps catch potential health issues earlier.

“The ultimate goal is that a patient can find the right primary care provider they feel they can trust,” Dr. Zuniga said. “Someone who will give them the right type of guidance. Someone who will ‘get them’ and ‘know them.’ The hope is to develop a long-lasting relationship, sometimes even lasting decades.”

Understanding red flags

Pay attention to how you feel during your interactions. Poor communication or a dismissive attitude toward your concerns should raise red flags. If your provider seems rushed or unwilling to answer questions, you may want to find someone who is willing to take the time to address your concerns thoroughly. If you consistently have trouble getting appointments or responses from the office, that might indicate access issues.

Finding a new primary care provider can feel overwhelming, but at Mount Nittany Health, our team of caring providers across central Pennsylvania focuses on building meaningful patient relationships. We offer flexible scheduling options, including same-day appointments and telehealth visits, because we know life gets busy.

If you’re ready to find your healthcare partner, our providers are accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward better health.