Making your first doctor’s appointment can feel like a big step and may leave you feeling like you don’t know where to start. However, taking time to prepare and understanding what to expect can help make the process easier.

Making your first doctor’s appointment can feel overwhelming. The process can often involve more than just picking up the phone. You will typically need to gather health insurance information, fill out paperwork, and research doctors in your area to find the right care.

If you’re navigating the healthcare system for the first time, you may feel like you don’t know where to start. However, there are several steps you can take to feel prepared and ensure you can take an active role in your healthcare.

Read on to learn how you can find a doctor that meets your individual needs, how to schedule your first appointment, and how you can prepare.

When searching for a doctor, it’s important to consider:

  • if their practice location is convenient and accessible for you, particularly if you have mobility needs
  • what experience they have and whether they specialize in your needs
  • what conditions they treat and what procedures they offer
  • if they are accepting new patients
  • what credentials they have and whether they are board certified
  • whether they accept your insurance plan

It can also be helpful to ask for recommendations from friends and family members and explore online reviews.

If you have a chronic condition, advocacy and online support groups can help you find doctors who specialize in your condition and understand your needs.

Before scheduling your first doctor’s appointment, it’s important to understand how your health plan works. Your health insurance company, state Medicaid, or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) agency can answer any questions you have.

This can include:

  • Checking if a doctor is in-network or out-of-network: If a doctor is in-network, they have a contract with your provider, which will cover all or part of the cost. However, if they are out-of-network, your plan may only cover a small percentage of the cost, leaving you to pay the majority of the charge yourself.
  • Understanding if you need to have a primary care physician (PCP): Some health insurance plans require you to choose a PCP when you sign up. If you have yet to select one, your insurance company may have an approved list you need to choose from.
  • Asking about cost-sharing policies: You can speak with your provider beforehand to understand what services they will cover, how much of the total cost they will cover, and how much you are expected to pay out of pocket.

When making the appointment, it can be helpful to mention the following:

  1. Your name, and that you are a new patient.
  2. If you want to speak with a particular doctor, and why you would like to see them.
  3. The name of your insurance plan, or that you are enrolled in Medicaid or have CHIP coverage.
  4. If you require any accommodations, such as requesting:
    • a language interpreter
    • accessible parking
    • assistance to get to the examination room

Confidentiality in healthcare: Your rights as a minor

As a minor, you may have the right to access some forms of healthcare, such as sexual health and mental health support, without parental involvement. However, this depends on the state you live in.

When scheduling your appointment, it can be helpful to ask the clinic or doctor’s office about the laws in your state. They can inform you if your care and documentation will be kept confidential.

Taking time to prepare for your first doctor’s appointment can help you feel well-equipped to communicate your health needs and make the most of your time.

Steps you can take to prepare for your first appointment include:

  • identifying what you would like to achieve from your appointment
  • taking the time to think about what questions you’d like to ask and writing them down beforehand
  • preparing anything you need to bring with you, such as:
    • your health insurance information
    • your medical records
    • information about your family health history
    • any medications and supplements you are taking
    • any health questionnaires or forms

Making your first doctor’s appointment can feel overwhelming. However, taking time to prepare can help make the process feel easier.

This can involve:

  • finding a doctor who meets your individual needs
  • preparing any necessary information before scheduling your appointment
  • asking for any accommodations beforehand
  • taking the time to understand your health insurance

Knowing what to expect when making your appointment can help you communicate your needs effectively and take an active role in your healthcare.