Intro
Moving states can be an overwhelming process. Between organizing the movers, readjusting in a new place, and building your new life, one of the last things you’ll think of is finding a doctor. However, it’s one of the most important things you’ll need to do! We’re breaking down how to find a doctor when moving to your new state and why it’s so important.
Why Finding a Doctor Is Important
Our health is one of the most important things we need to take care of in our lives. A primary caregiver is able to monitor your health closely and help you through any alarming changes.
Having a doctor that you can go to with any concerns can be monumental in preventative care and even managing health issues you’ve already been diagnosed with.
For example, having a new provider in your state can be important for ensuring there is no gap in your blood pressure medication when making a move.
So, the question is, how does one find a doctor after moving to a new state? Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
1. Speak with Your Insurance
One of the first things you’ll want to double-check is that your insurance provider covers care in your new state. If your current insurance company is only available within the state you’re moving from, you may need to switch insurance carriers which will need to be done before moving. If your insurance provider is a nationwide option, you’ll want to check with them for guidelines on how coverage extends and how you can find someone in-network in the new state.
2. Find a Doctor Fit For You
Choosing a doctor is extremely individualistic. You’ll want to consider each option’s unique background and specialties to see which is the best for you.
This process can take quite some time, especially if moving to a big city, so be sure to budget enough time to run through all your options. If you have unique medical needs, you’ll want to also choose the best specialists for your needs, but for a primary physician, it’s important to find someone you’re comfortable with.
3. Trial Run with Potential Doctors
Sometimes, a network will allow you to do a trial run with a doctor, and if it’s not a good fit, you can try another option. In some cases, you may also be able to sit down and interview the doctor before beginning treatment to ensure that you’re comfortable with the individual.
If your insurance provider allows this, take advantage of the meeting and sit down and ask any questions about their expertise in areas of concern for you. This can also be applicable to your preferred treatment options, such as holistic approaches. Ask your doctor how they feel about treatment options that are important to you.
4. Consider their Proximity to You
One of the easiest ways to narrow down prospective doctors when moving is their location. If you’re willing to travel far for a doctor you love, then that may open your choices, but for most, potential doctors will be limited to a certain radius around the home or workplace.
Whether you’re looking to schedule doctor appointments right after the workday is over or near your home, narrowing down the radius you’re willing to travel can help.
5. Ask for Referrals
If you’re overwhelmed with choices for new providers upon moving, it may be time to ask your current providers or network for help. Receiving a referral is a full-proof way to narrow down potential providers to someone that is actually fit to prove for you.
Ideally, you could ask current specialists or physicians you work with for a direct referral, but that is not always possible. It may take your doctor asking around on your behalf to help you determine who the best choice is.
Conclusion
Choosing a doctor is an important part of moving to a new state. While there are plenty of things on that mind when you’re trying to move, make sure that choosing your new provider is one of them. Above all else, trust yourself to make the best choices for your health.
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