How to Switch Primary Doctors

Many insurance plans allow family members to select different primary care physicians.

With most health insurance plans, you have the option to change your primary care physician at any time. However, there are some plans that only allow one change per month. Check with your insurance company for plan coverage options.

Things You'll Need

• Insurance card
• Identification card

Instructions

1. View your medical plan's website to see a list of approved medical providers. Select several doctors near your area of town for your convenience.Write down their provider number and telephone number.

2. Call each doctor's office. Ask if the doctor is accepting new patients. Also ask about office hours, including after hours appointments and emergency visits. Based on your needs, decide on a new primary care physician.

3. Call your medical plan's member services representative to switch your primary care physician. Give the doctor's provider number and address as well as your insurance card number, policyholder's name and date of birth.

Tips & Warnings

• Your medical plan's 1-800 telephone number is listed on the back of your insurance card.

• Most changes become effective on the first of the month.

References

• University of California, Davis: Human Resources