What Is a Primary Care Provider?

A primary care provider (PCP) is sometimes called a primary care physician. A PCP can be:

• a doctor,
• nurse practitioner,
• physician assistant, or even
• a care team (through a virtual primary care practice like CloseKnit).

How Do I Choose a PCP if I Don't Have One?

There are two reliable ways to start your search:

1. Talk to your friends and family—personal recommendations can give you a good sense of whether you would be comfortable with a particular PCP.
2. Use a health insurance company's provider directory—this is typically an online tool that helps you find a PCP in your area and within your health plan's network, such as CareFirst's  Find a Doctor  tool.

You will see a list of PCPs who are in network for CareFirst coverage. You'll also see:

• PCP’s specialty (internal medicine, family practice, nurse practitioner, pediatrics)
• whether they're accepting new patients,
• what languages they speak,
• where they went to medical school, and
• their practice address and phone number.

Note: If you logged in as a CareFirst member, you would only get results for doctors that accept your particular CareFirst plan.

Do I Have To Choose a PCP?

If you have an HMO health plan, you will usually be required to choose a PCP. You may also need a referral (written notice) from your PCP to see any medical specialists other than an OB/GYN.

Otherwise, when it comes to receiving care, you have a choice:

• You can receive care from any doctor you would like to see. (However, using in-network doctors will often reduce the amount you pay for care.)
• Selecting a PCP is not mandatory—but it is highly recommended.