How to Choose a Primary Care Provider

Choosing a primary care provider is important, and not just when you’re sick. Even those in good overall health need a local family doctor who can help them stay that way.

Your primary care provider or family doctor can help maintain your health history, detect allergies, track vital signs, analyze lab results, and help you feel your best through all stages of life. She or he will look after your ongoing health and overall well-being by addressing acute conditions, managing chronic illnesses like long COVID and diabetes, and preventing future conditions that might put your health in jeopardy.

Primary care providers may be known for preventative care, but these medical experts can also help with the following:

• Treating infections
• Giving vaccines
• Helping with child development
• Recommending exercises for back and joint pain
• Referring a specialty care provider when needed
• Sharing solutions for stress-related problems, and more.

The likelihood of discovering a serious condition is also higher when a doctor or healthcare provider has treated you before. That's because she or he knows your baseline lab results, has listened to your heart and lungs, and knows what's normal and healthy for you.

Questions to ask when choosing a provider

Finding the right local primary care provider is a big decision. Ask friends and family for recommendations and make sure the provider accepts your insurance.

When choosing a provider, consider asking the following:

• How many years has she or he been serving the community?
• Does the provider location offer literature describing its services?
• When are providers available? Is there a provider on-call after hours?
• How is the quality of care and services monitored?
• What types of payments are accepted?
• Is a patient portal available for accessing health information?

Munson Healthcare primary care providers near you

Munson Healthcare primary care locations servicing northern Michigan are accepting new patients. Most offer a wide variety of services, including:

• Well-child visits and immunizations
• Available Virtual Visits
• Online patient portals for information and messaging
• Access to hospital services  

Many have additional on-site features. Things like labs, x-rays, urgent care, and medical specialists like OB/GYN and behavioral health. You can find a full list of primary care locations here.

If you need help finding a nearby primary care provider, please call Munson Healthcare Ask-A-Nurse at 231-935-0951. Registered nurses are available 24 hours a day.

Whether it’s your annual checkup, a well-child visit, or when a loved one doesn’t feel right, your local Munson Healthcare primary care experts are here for you. Always safe, compassionate, and close to home.