What is a primary care physician?
Depending on which managed care product you have, you may be required to select a primary care physician (PCP) from the plan’s network. A PCP acts as the patient’s regular physician and coordinates any other care the patient needs, such as a visit to a specialist or hospitalization. They typically practice family, internal or pediatric medicine. Their educational backgrounds enable them to give you a solid, overall picture of your health. Check your contract or Certificate to know what is required of you.
These are physicians who identify themselves as Family Practice, Internal Medicine, or Pediatric doctors. A primary care physician (PCP) is the physician that you should establish a relationship with so that you have a “medical home”. A medical home will benefits you when you are acutely ill as well as perform necessary annual physicals to identify any conditions you may have. Please check with your human resources office or plan administrator to clarify the specifics of your health plan. The plan administrator’s number is located on your medical ID card. If you need to find a primary care physician in your area, please use our Provider Search. If you have difficulty establishing with a primary care physician, pleast contact QCP. Our members are eager to assist you.
PCPs are providers who have contracted with Great-West Healthcare to be for providing, arranging and coordinating all aspects of a Member’s care. Each family member may choose a different PCP. For help in selecting a PCP, contact Member Services. Complete the Application for Membership indicating a choice of PCP for each covered family member. Primary care doctors can provide most medical services and your plan may apply lower copays for using their services as opposed to visiting a specialist. A primary care provider includes physicians in the fields of General Practice, Family Practice, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. OB/GYNs who have agreed to serve as a primary care physician are also included. To confirm whether a doctor is a primary care physician or a specialist, members can access our on-line provider search tools by clicking the find a provider button above or call Member Services at the phone number on the ID card.
