How to Choose the Right Primary Care Doctor for Your Family

Gina Dean
November 4, 2025
12:55 pm
0 comments

A step-by-step guide to choosing the right primary care doctor for your family. Learn what to consider, from insurance and location to qualifications and communication style. Find your perfect PCP at SOM Medical Practice in Western New York.

Hosted by:

Gina Dean

Gina joined SOM Medical Practice in 2017 as a receptionist and has since grown into her role as a Practice Administrator.

She’s worn many hats over the years and works hard to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. With a strong foundation in patient care coordination, office operations, and protocol development, she brings a thoughtful and organized approach to supporting both patients and providers.

Gina is passionate about making a positive impact in healthcare and is currently pursuing a career in nursing with the goal of becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner. When she’s not at work or studying, you can probably find her at the gym or enjoying a quiet weekend at home.

How to choose the best primary care for you

Key Takeaways

A primary care doctor is your long-term health partner. Choosing the right one is a crucial decision for your family’s health and well-being.
Consider practical factors first. Start by checking which doctors are covered by your insurance and are conveniently located.
Look for qualifications and a good fit. A good primary care doctor should be board-certified, have a communication style that works for you, and share your philosophy on healthcare.

Introduction

Choosing a primary care doctor (PCP) is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family’s health. Your PCP is your main point of contact for all your healthcare needs, from routine check-ups and preventive care to managing chronic conditions and referring you to specialists. A good PCP is more than just a doctor; they are a trusted partner in your health journey. They get to know you and your family, understand your health history, and provide continuous, comprehensive care over the long term.

With so many options available, finding the right PCP can feel overwhelming. How do you know which doctor is the best fit for your family? This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, from understanding the different types of PCPs to knowing what questions to ask when making your choice. By taking the time to choose wisely, you can build a strong, lasting relationship with a provider who will help you and your family stay healthy for years to come.

1. Understand the Different Types of Primary Care Doctors

Before you start your search, it’s helpful to understand the different types of doctors who can serve as your PCP. The right choice for you will depend on your family’s needs.

Family Practitioners: These doctors are trained to care for patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. They can treat a wide range of conditions and are a great choice for families who want to see the same doctor.
Pediatricians: Pediatricians specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. If you have young children, a pediatrician is an excellent choice for their primary care.
Internists (Internal Medicine Doctors): Internists specialize in the care of adults. They are trained to diagnose and treat complex medical conditions and are a good choice for adults with chronic diseases.
Geriatricians: Geriatricians specialize in the care of older adults, typically those 65 and older. They are experts in managing the complex health needs of seniors.
Obstetricians/Gynecologists (OB/GYNs): While OB/GYNs specialize in women’s reproductive health, many women choose their OB/GYN as their PCP.

At SOM Medical Practice, our team includes a variety of primary care providers to meet the diverse needs of our community.

2. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Before you get too far in your search, it’s essential to check your health insurance plan. Most insurance plans have a network of preferred providers, and you will typically pay less out-of-pocket if you see a doctor who is in your network. You can usually find a list of in-network doctors on your insurance company’s website or by calling their customer service number.

When checking your insurance, be sure to ask about:

In-network providers: Which doctors in your area are covered by your plan?
Copayments and deductibles: How much will you have to pay for each visit?
Referral requirements: Do you need a referral from your PCP to see a specialist?

Understanding your insurance coverage upfront can save you from unexpected medical bills down the road.

3. Consider Logistics and Location

Convenience is a key factor in choosing a PCP. If your doctor’s office is difficult to get to, you may be less likely to go for regular check-ups and preventive care. When considering location, think about:

Proximity to your home or work: Is the office easy to get to from your daily routes?
Office hours: Are the office hours convenient for your schedule? Do they offer evening or weekend appointments?
Accessibility: Is the office accessible for people with disabilities? Is there ample parking?
Telehealth options: Does the practice offer virtual visits for certain types of appointments?

SOM Medical Practice has five convenient locations across Western New York, making it easy to find a provider near you.

4. Research Qualifications and Experience

Once you have a list of potential doctors, it’s time to do some research. You want to make sure your doctor is qualified, experienced, and has a good reputation. Here are some things to look for:

Board Certification: Board certification means that a doctor has completed advanced training in their specialty and has passed a rigorous exam. You can check a doctor’s board certification on the American Board of Medical Specialties website [1].
Experience: How long has the doctor been in practice? Do they have experience treating patients with your specific health concerns?
Hospital Affiliations: Which hospitals is the doctor affiliated with? This is important to consider in case you need to be hospitalized.
Online Reviews: While online reviews should be taken with a grain of salt, they can give you a general sense of what other patients’ experiences have been like.

5. Find a Doctor Who is a Good Fit for You

Perhaps the most important factor in choosing a PCP is finding someone you feel comfortable with and can build a trusting relationship with. Your PCP is your partner in health, so you want to find someone who listens to your concerns, explains things clearly, and involves you in decisions about your care. The National Institute on Aging suggests asking yourself the following questions when considering a new doctor [2]:

Communication Style: Do you prefer a doctor who is warm and friendly, or more formal and direct? Does the doctor explain things in a way you can understand?
Philosophy of Care: Does the doctor focus on wellness and prevention, or primarily on treating disease? Do they have a conservative or aggressive approach to treatment?
Patient-Centered Approach: Does the doctor listen to your concerns and answer your questions? Do they involve you in decisions about your care?

Don’t be afraid to schedule a “meet and greet” appointment to interview a potential doctor before making your decision. This is a great way to see if their personality and practice style are a good fit for you and your family.

Choosing the right primary care doctor is a significant step towards a healthier future. By following these steps, you can find a provider who will be a trusted partner in your family’s health journey for years to come. SOM Medical Practice is proud to offer a team of dedicated and compassionate primary care providers across Western New York. We invite you to learn more about our providers and find the perfect fit for your family.