GETTING CARE [PART 1]
4 common provider types and when to use them
How do you know what providers to see when? Here's a helpful guide to 4 common provider types, along with what to search for in the provider directory.
Primary doctor
Search for: General practitioner, family doctor, internist, pediatrician, OB/GYN
Your primary doctor should be your first call for all non-emergency health needs.
Specialist
Search for: Cardiologist, dermatologist, orthopedic surgeon, etc.
In many cases, your primary care doctor will refer you to a specialist if you have a specific health care needs.
Mental health: Counselor/therapist
Search for: Marriage/family therapist, mental health counselor, social worker, psychologist
Offers talk, behavioral, and other therapy. Does not prescribe or manage medication.
Mental health: Psychiatrist
Search for: Psychiatrist
A medical doctor specializing in mental and behavioral health. Prescribes and manages medication.