Woman looking at a tablet with her physician.

Tips for a Successful Visit with Your Primary Care Provider

Your Primary Care Provider (PCP) is your first stop toward improving your overall health. Your PCP will perform a physical exam, help you complete recommended screenings or immunizations and discuss any other important considerations about your health. Remember to schedule a follow-up visit with your PCP after an emergency room visit or hospitalization.

PCP Visit Checklist

Make the most of your PCP visit. Print off and fill out our PCP visit checklist. Take it with you the next time you see your PCP.

PCP Checklist PCP Checklist for Medicare Advantage Members

Tips for a Successful Visit

Review this list of things to consider before your next PCP appointment.

Make note of these important things to tell your doctor about:

  • Any health or life changes since your last visit
  • Any symptoms you are experiencing
  • Any recent visits to the emergency room (ER), hospital or urgent care
  • Any specialists you see to help manage your care (including mental health practitioners)
  • List your current medications including: prescription, over-the-counter and supplements, and ask about any interactions

Medication Review Checklist:

  • Do you have any problems getting or taking your medications?
  • Do you take medications to manage pain? Review pain management strategies with your PCP.
  • If you refill your maintenance medications every month, would switching to a three-month refill be better suited for you?

Physical Health Checklist:

  • Do you ever feel unsteady or need extra support while walking? Have you had any recent falls?
  • Does your health restrict daily activities like cooking, cleaning, bathing or exercise?
  • What is your energy level? How much and what type of exercise is right for you?
  • Do you have issues with bladder control (incontinence)? Does it keep you from exercising, socializing, or sleeping?

Emotional Health Checklist:

  • Are you having any anxiety, stress or problems sleeping?
  • Any problems with memory loss?
  • Have you been feeling sad, hopeless or find yourself crying often?
  • Are you feeling lonely or isolated? Who is there to support you? Do you feel safe?

Important Health Checks You and Your Doctor Should Complete:

  • Check your weight
  • Check that your blood pressure is at a healthy level
  • Check that you are up to date on needed immunizations/shots, including a flu shot and COVID-19 vaccines
  • Check if you’re due for any routine screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies and bone density tests
  • Ask about a hearing test
  • Check if you are due for routine lab work

If You Have Diabetes, Talk to Your Provider About:

  • Hemoglobin A1c tests (HbA1c)
  • Foot exams
  • Cholesterol checks
  • Kidney health monitoring
  • Eye exams to check for diabetes related changes
  • Statin medications, even if your cholesterol levels are normal

Already Have a PCP?

If you haven’t already done so, let Medical Mutual know who your PCP is by signing into My Health Plan or calling us at the number on your Medical Mutual ID card.