And why that’s good for you & value-based care providers
Making the switch to a new primary care doctor near you is a significant and worthwhile decision. NewPrimaryCare.com is here to help.
One of the biggest factors in wanting to change your primary care doctor is feeling like you’re treated like a number. On average, a patient visit lasts 15 minutes with a doctor using the traditional fee-for-service model—compared to the value-based care model.
We feel primary care doctors should spend more time with their patients, especially during those first visits. Longer, more meaningful appointments need to be about you and your health—not about seeing as many people as possible. Doctors who focus on value-based care see fewer patients on average. This helps them develop deeper relationships with the ones they see regularly. They’re also able to see patients more often, instead of solely when an illness arises.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Once you’ve selected your new primary care doctor and scheduled your first appointment, you’ll need to prepare for the visit. There are a few ways you can get ready to help your appointment go more smoothly. They include:
- Writing down your medical history so you don’t forget anything that could be relevant
- Making a list of any issues you’re experiencing or have noticed in the past year
- Include a list of your health goals as well
- Consider bringing your spouse or a trusted family member or friend. (This can be a great idea for seniors or those with memory issues.)
- Round up your medications to either bring with you or make a list of them. (If you make a list, be sure to include the name, dosage, and how often you take them.)
- Similarly, if you have any recent lab or imaging results, gather those to take as well
This may sound like a lot of work before you even step foot in the office, but it can help your doctor better understand where you’re coming from.
If you want to get a feel for the physician’s office before your appointment, schedule a tour. You can see the facilities, get to know the staff, and really decide whether the primary care provider is the right fit for your needs.
Meeting Your New Primary Care Doctor
By being equipped with all your information, your new physician can work through your medical history with you, along with what is happening now and where you’d like to be in the future. This will help lay the foundation for them to help you on your way to improved health.
A value-based care doctor will familiarize themselves with your conditions and medical history. They’ll ask a variety of questions that go beyond the standard, vague question of “How are you feeling these days?” Instead, they’ll have a real conversation with you about your complex needs, actively listen to your questions, and provide thoughtful answers. By giving you the time to air your concerns, you’ll not only feel better about the level of care, but you’ll notice that it is better overall.
Finding Value-Based Care
If you’ve been wanting better quality care that focuses on your unique health issues, switch to a provider that offers value-based care. You’ll find that longer, more meaningful appointments ensure your primary care physician can get to know you and your needs.
Find a physician who will put your health first – search for a primary care doctor near you, or talk to one of our Primary Care Advocates to help guide your search.
