As you get started on your own healthcare journey, don’t go it alone. Let your primary care provider (PCP) be your guide! Your PCP is the doctor you go to for all your regular check-ups or health concerns. They can:
- Give you screening tests to find problems early when they are easier to treat
- Give you needed vaccines that help protect you from illnesses like the flu
- Answer your questions about things like:
- Caring for your body — body changes, sexual health, managing health conditions and keeping your body safe
- Caring for your mind — stress, depression or anxiety
- Other topics — building healthy relationships, eating healthy, alcohol/drug use and more
If you don’t know who your PCP is, log in to the Member Portal and follow the instructions.
It may be time to choose a new PCP! Transitioning to a PCP for your adult care can be an important step in taking charge of your health. Also, your current PCP may only see patients up to a certain age, so you may need to switch when you turn 17 or 18 years old.
- Ask your current PCP how much longer you can keep seeing them for care.
- Choose a new PCP from HPSM’s network who specializes in adult care. Learn how.
It is important that you visit your PCP at least once a year, even if you don’t feel sick. Taking charge of your health includes preventive care and regular checkups.
If you haven’t seen your PCP in a long time, or if you are switching to a new one, learn about what happens during your first visit.