How to choose a provider that’s right for you

Choosing a new health care provider is a big decision—one that can lead to a long-term relationship with a trusted provider who will understand your individual health concerns and help you along your health care journey.     

Your choice should be one that is based on your individual needs and personality style. It’s ideal when you can find a provider that simply “fits.”

What to look for in a new provider

Perhaps you have moved, changed insurance coverage or simply don’t feel that your needs are being met with your current provider. Ridgeview has 13 primary care clinic locations from which to choose with more than 30 primary care providers, and Western OB/GYN, A Division of Ridgeview Clinics with 14 providers. A couple of things to keep in mind when choosing a new provider:

• Consider whether age, gender or language might affect what you choose to share with your provider. For example, you might feel more comfortable with one whose gender is the same as yours.
• Keep logistics in mind. Is the clinic location near your home or work? Does that provider schedule virtual visits?

Preparing for your first appointment

To get the most out of your appointment, come prepared. Bring a list of medications you are taking. Also, be sure to bring a list of questions that you want to be sure to discuss. Hearing a new diagnosis, medication name or treatment can be overwhelming—consider bringing a small notepad to jot down information you don’t want to forget. Be sure to ask your provider to explain anything you don’t understand.

It is common for patient advocates, such as adult children or spouses, to accompany older patients during their appointments. Patient advocates help to manage care, make sure medications are being taken as prescribed and assure accurate information is being shared.

Your wellness exam

A wellness check or physical exam is a great opportunity to get to know your provider and discuss your overall health. A strong provider/patient relationship is built on honest and open two-way communication. Take advantage of your annual checkup to ask questions and engage in conversation about your health. This helps your provider get to know you better and understand your unique health history, needs and concerns.

Your provider will work with you to manage your health by recommending preventive screenings and immunizations, as well as addressing any specific health concerns—including physical and mental health issues. When specialized care is needed, your provider will refer you to a specialist who can better diagnose and treat more complex issues. 

Free Meet and Greet visits

You’re encouraged to put some thought into what you’re looking for in a provider at Ridgeview and scheduling a free Meet and Greet visit*. This is a great first step in building this important relationship. A Meet and Greet visit is not a regular appointment for a wellness check or medical concern—it is a short, 10-minute visit to get to know a provider to see if they’re might be the right fit for you.

*New patients only - schedule and availability restrictions may apply. A Meet and Greet visit is intended to give you an opportunity to get to know more about a primary care provider's style, interests and background, and to discuss your expectations and needs as a patient. Please note that this first meeting is NOT a clinical visit. No clinical examinations, treatments or referrals to other health providers will occur during this visit.