4 steps to find the right doctor for you
Published on June 29, 2017
Most health plans give you the best deal on services when you see a doctor who has a contract with your health plan. You may be able to see doctors who don’t contract with your plan, but visiting an "in-network" provider usually means you'll have lower out-of-pocket costs.
- Identify "in-network" providers that meet your needs.
- Review your health plan’s provider directory — a list of the doctors, hospitals, and other health care providers that your plan contracts with to provide care.
- If you're looking for something specific, like a doctor who speaks a language other than English or can accommodate a disability, your insurer should be able to guide you in the right direction.
- Ask your friends for recommendations.
- You can ask people you trust if they have any doctors they like.
- Sometimes you can look up providers online to see what other people in the community say about them.
- Pick a provider.
- Call the provider's office, and ask any questions you may have to help you decide if they’re the right fit.
- You may also want to know if the office is close to your house or work, and if the appointment times work with your schedule.
- Give them a try!
- Sometimes it takes more than one visit to figure out if a provider is the right one for you.
Get more information on picking a provider (PDF).