How to Find a Primary Care Provider
Find the Right Primary Care Provider for You at U of U Health
Finding a provider who fits your health needs is an important step in your health care journey. You want to make the right decision when choosing the person that will look after you and your family. At University of Utah Health, we prioritize customized, science-backed care. Whether you are looking for chronic condition management or overall wellness support, our network of providers and specialists will fit your unique needs.
What Does a Primary Care Provider Do?
A primary care provider (PCP) is the health care professional you see for your basic health needs. Primary care physicians include doctors with different levels of training. This allows them to provide specialized care to patients in specific age groups.
University of Utah trains the majority of health care professionals in Utah. Your provider may be a primary care physician (MD or DO). They could also be an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), nurse practitioner (NP), or physician assistant (PA).
APRNs, NPs, and PAs are advanced practice clinicians (APCs). This means they have advanced training in the same medical areas.
Our PCPs deliver a high standard of primary care to you and your family. They provide regular health services:
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Diagnose and treat common problems, like infections and injuries
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Manage chronic conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure
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Provide regular checkups and vaccinations
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Refer you to specialists
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Schedule screening tests
Can Primary Care Providers Prescribe Medication?
Utah PCPs, PAs, APRNs, and NPs can prescribe medications.
When to See a Primary Care Provider
Do You Have an Emergency?
Emergency departments treat life-threatening symptoms. Urgent care is for problems that can’t wait but aren’t life threatening. Check current wait times and locations before you go.
U of U Health is here to help you stay healthy. There are several reasons that you might make an appointment with us:
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Family or life changes—We can help with pregnancy concerns or questions about new medications. We also help with concerns about mental health, like stress or mild depression. We offer care and support for the entire family, from kids to grandparents.
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Injuries or illnesses—We check on sprains, cuts, sinus infections, or the flu. For problems like chest pain, a severe headache, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness, go to your nearest emergency department or urgent care center.
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Managing conditions—You may need regular visits if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, or high cholesterol. Your primary care provider can change your medicine, monitor your progress, and check for complications.
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New or worsening symptoms—You should make an appointment for things like fevers that last multiple days, persistent coughing, unexplained pain, or dizziness. For urgent concerns that can’t wait, go to your nearest urgent care.
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Routine checkups and prevention—Annual visits may include a physical exam. We’ll check basic measurements, like blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight. We also give vaccines, schedule cancer screenings (mammograms or colonoscopies), and help prevent problems, like diabetes or heart disease.
Make an Appointment
1. New to U of U Health or Primary Care?
If you are new to U of U Health or have never seen one of our primary care providers before, schedule an appointment online.
2. Seen Us Before?
3. Give Us a Call.
Want to talk to someone directly? You can also schedule your appointment over the phone. Call us at 801-213-9500.
Virtual Primary Care
Receive high-quality care from the comfort of your home. We offer virtual primary care visits for your convenience. Get a routine checkup, refill a prescription, and more.
Choosing a Primary Care Provider
Choosing a primary care provider can feel overwhelming. Making the choice takes time, research, and at least one trial visit. A strong relationship with your primary care provider is built on trust. Look for someone you feel comfortable with. The right provider should help you ask questions, understand your options, and make informed decisions about your care.
How to Start Your Search
Ask Around
Referrals are popular because they come from people that you know and trust:
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Coworkers
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Friends and family
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Other health care professionals, like your dentist or pharmacist
Do Research
It's easier than ever to look for a new primary care provider. Try these resources:
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Health system directories—It’s helpful to search within your current health system. It is easier when all your doctors and health records are in one place. U of U Health offers an integrated health system. This means all your care is under one roof.
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Insurance plans—Contact your insurance company. Ask them for a list of in-network primary care providers in your area. Picking a provider who takes your insurance can save you money. Check to see if we accept your insurance plan.
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Online reviews—It helps to read what other patients say about a provider before you pick one. Looking at provider bios can help you learn more about a clinician’s background, care philosophy, and clinical interests. Find a doctor who fits your needs.
Think About Your Needs
When you've narrowed down your search, ask a few questions:
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Availability—Is the provider accepting new patients? Are they covered by your insurance?
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Convenience—What are the clinic’s office hours, and where is it located? Do they offer virtual visits or Telehealth options?
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Experience—Do you need a provider with specialized training, like a pediatrician?
Focus on What Matters
Make an appointment after you've made your choice. Record how you feel during and after your visit. If a certain provider doesn’t feel right after a couple of visits, it’s okay to switch and keep looking. A PCP will be your partner in guiding your and your family’s long-term health. Take your time to find a provider you can trust and work with comfortably.
Comfort
Do you feel at ease sharing personal details? Are the staff members friendly and organized?
Communication
Does the provider listen without rushing? Do they explain things clearly and welcome questions?
Compassion
Does the entire team show empathy and treat you as a person?
Prescriptions Delivered to Your Door
Get your prescriptions through the mail by using our free mail order service through MyChart. Call 801-213-8650 for help with our mail order service. You can also connect with a pharmacist from home.