I recently moved and need to select a new primary care physician. I don't have any ailments in particular so I don't necessarily have a focus.

I looked through the doctors that are providers in my insurance plan network and there a dozens to choose from. However, most have only one or two reviews, if any.

Any suggestions on how best to select a doctor? Should I just assume that all general family practice doctors will do and not worry about it until the time comes that I need a specialist? Just curious.

Is it possible to ask co-workers? Possibly folks at church or other social gatherings you are part of?

Edit: my last two pcps have gone through co-worker referral and then after I moved family referral.

Sherman Helmsley!

If these aren't an option, you could always ask here.

Where are you located? Have an Aggie down in Sugar Land that's great

I appreciate the responses. I'm in Colorado.

I asked a co-worker and got a name. I'll give them a shot. Like I said, I'm not looking too hard since I'm not really in need. It's just something where I've moved a few times before and never really thought about how I chose someone.

Thanks folks.

It is damn near impossible to find a good PCP. Most "good PCP's" are just nice people with a good bedside manner. Most non-medical people think their PCP is the bomb when in fact their medical decision making and knowledge base may be horrible.

The best thing to do is first weed out the baddies by checking with the state medical board. They will keep track of any suspensions or other actions and also list any convictions. Keep an eye out for DUI's substance abuse is a significant issue in the medical community.

After that I would stick with a group instead of a solo doc because at least then there is some auditing and cross checking of their skillset. If you can find one that teaches medical students and/or residents that is further assurance that they are forced to keep up to date.

Good luck, finding a new PCP is it tough. Just don't settle. If you are not comfortable move on.

I'm in the same predicament. I've been in Waco for 7 years and have never really needed a PCP and never sought one out because I was in my late 20's and given a clean bill of health (other than being overweight) during a full physical prior to starting at my job. Then I made a lifestyle change, took up weight training, then cycling then triathlons and lost 50# so I never really worried about my health.
The stumped on diagnosis thread got me really thinking I should find a PCP and at least get in the routine of yearly check ups now that I'm in my 30s.
My biggest concern is finding one that is familiar and understanding of endurance athletes; a background in sports medicine would be a huge plus. Unfortunately, I've heard that the great ones in Waco are all booked up.

I would look into a Direct Primary Care (DPC) doc. You pay a monthly fee and get unlimited access. And labs are significantly discounted usually. The incentive to do treatments not needed is really reduced with this structure.

You can get same day appointments. I use one and it is great. And I work in the medical field.