Choosing a Primary Care Provider
Choosing a Primary Care Provider
Your Primary Care Provider( PCP) is your main point of contact for your health. They handle your regular checkups, help prevent illness and support your overall wellness. They treat common conditions, provide screenings and help you make healthy choices. If you need specialty care your PCP will refer you to the right specialist.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER
1. Pick an in-network PCP. Choosing an in-network provider helps you avoid surprise costs. Find one at apps. HometownHealth. com / OnlineProviderDirectory( see page 13) or call 775-982-3232 or 800-336-0123( TTY Relay Service – 711).
Interpreter services are available. YOU MUST CHOOSE A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER IN THE NETWORK LISTED ON YOUR ID CARD.
2. Choose a provider with the right experience.
• Family Medicine – treats all ages and many conditions.
• Internal / General Medicine – focuses on adults, prevention and chronic conditions.
• Geriatric Medicine – specializes in older adults with complex needs.
• Nurse Practitioner( NP) – can diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans and prescribing medications under the guidance of supervising physician.
• Physician Assistant( PA) – can diagnose, prescribe medications and manage most health needs under the guidance of supervising physician.
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT NURSE PRACTITIONERS AND PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS: Visits with a Nurse Practitioner or a Physician Assistant are backed by a supervising physician, so you get the benefit of two providers in one! It’ s coordinated care that ensures in-clinic availability and access to care when you need it.
It’ s important your child has the same access to primary care you do. Visit apps. HometownHealth. com / OnlineProviderDirectory or call 775-982-3232 for help finding an in-network pediatrician for your child.
What to do when your Primary Care Provider leaves the network or area? Get established with a new provider ASAP! If your Primary Care Provider has moved or left the area, we understand how challenging it can be to find a new provider. However, it’ s important to get established with a new PCP as soon as possible. New patient appointments often take longer to schedule, so don’ t wait until you need care to start the process. By choosing a PCP now, you’ ll have someone who knows your health history and can provide care when you need it. Check out the tips on selecting a new PCP and take the first step toward ensuring your health needs are met without delays.
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