Making our Own Doctors Appointments

It may be that one day your parents cut off their doctors appointment logistical support.  Maybe you got a job with your very own health insurance (hooray!) Or maybe you've simply decided its time to do this Adult Thing yourself. Navigating the healthcare system can be confusing even for Expert Adults.  No time like the present to start making some sense of it, because you're in charge of all this now, no take backsies.

If you already have a doctor where you're currently living, victory is just a phone call away.  Call up your doctor's office follow any automated prompts they may have (you're likely to get these if it's a big office. If you don't know what to do, just keep clicking the "other" option until you get to talk to a person) Then all you have to do is say "Hello, this is [Name] I need to make an appointment with Dr.[Name].  Then you answer all the questions.  They're going to ask what the purpose of your visit is (try to say physical instead of checkup) what days and times work for you, etc.  Then you just write it down and show up on time.

If you need a new doctor, maybe because you're too old for your pediatrician, your insurance has changed or you've relocated and it's time to find a doctor in your own city instead of where your parents live.  Don't despair, there are only three steps!

First, get your hands on a list of providers near you that are covered.  You're looking for a Primary Care Physician, also known as a General Practitioner, or an Internist/Doctor of Internal Medicine.  Some will have other specialties as well, but don't go making an appointment with a cardiologist. My insurance company has a handy online portal where I can search for them.  You can also call them up and get a list.  But be ready for more automated prompts and probably some time on hold.  If you have a doctor in mind you can call them up and ask if they take your plan (have your insurance card handy.)  While you're looking into your insurance situation, find out if you have to notify them before receiving non emergency care or starting with a new provider.  If you're on your parents insurance they'll know this.  Not following their rules can cost you big money (we've all seen Sicko, right?)

Next, pick a doctor off your list. This is an intimidating endeavor, picking someone to trust with your health off a random list.  Narrow it by location and, if it matters to you, gender. It's perfectly fine if your doctor's gender impacts your comfort level (especially an OB/GYN, amirite, ladies?) Your next stop is the internet, I recommend healthgrades.com.  You can search your whole list and see where they went to school, how long they've been practicing, patient reviews and more.  Treat it like you're shopping for a computer.  Pick a few that seem good.

Now, call and make an appointment. Say ""Hello, I'd like to make an appointment with Dr.[Name] is s/he taking new patients? If they aren't, call someone else on your list.  If they are, make your appointment. Of the day of, follow all the instuctions they've given you, bring ID and  your insurance card, and arrive fifteen minutes early to fill out paperwork.

You did it!  Remember that if you don't have a good experience, you can start again when the time comes for your next visit.  You should feel as comfortable as possible with your doctor and you may need to try a few before you find a good fit.

I know that doing literally anything that has literally anything to do with insurance is a gigantic pain.  You might have a breakdown over your youth being over.  You might cry out of frustration while on the phone.  You might swear to move to Canada. I am not speaking from experience at all here, pure speculation.  But in the end you have a vital new skill, and you've taken control over your healthcare, which is a huge step towards adulthood, independence, and general badassery.