Primary care in Chicago: 3 ways to find a PCP

illustration of woman with a magnifying glass searching for a doctor

A primary care physician, or PCP, is a partner for your health. They support you not only when you’re sick, but also with preventive care, early detection, and managing ongoing conditions.

Looking for a new doctor can feel overwhelming, but the right choice can make a big difference in your well-being for the long term.

Whether you’re searching for yourself or your whole family, these tips can help you feel confident about making a smart decision.

1. Verify insurance and credentials

Start by looking for doctors covered by your insurance for more affordable visits. Make sure a PCP is board-certified. It’s a sign they’re committed to staying current and providing excellent care. Location matters, too: Choose a practice that’s convenient for your life.

2. Ask for recommendations and check reviews

See what friends, neighbors and coworkers have to say about their own experiences with primary care. Personal stories can point you toward a caring, approachable PCP. Online reviews and detailed profiles can also help you learn about the physician.

3. Evaluate after your first visit

After your first appointment, take time to reflect. A good PCP will listen, answer your questions and treat your concerns with respect. You should feel heard and understood. Over time, your PCP gets to know you, your history and your health goals.

Video Transcript

Choosing the right primary care doctor is one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term health. Hi, I'm Dr. Eric Stewart with UChicago Medicine Medical Group. Your primary care physician, or PCP, is your go-to partner for staying healthy. They help catch things early like high cholesterol, diabetes, or even cancer by ordering routine tests and screenings that fit your unique health needs and family history. But it's not just about prevention. Your PCP can also help manage ongoing health conditions and coordinate care with specialists to make sure everything works together smoothly. And when you're feeling sick, your PCP is the first person to call. If you're looking for a PCP, here's a simple way to start. First, check your insurance network to find doctors who are covered. Look for providers who are board certified and located conveniently for you. Ask friends or family for recommendations and take some time to read doctor profiles online. When you find someone you like, call their office to see if they're accepting new patients. At your first appointment, pay attention to how they communicate. A great doctor listens carefully, understands your concerns, and is a true partner in your health journey. Over time, your PCP gets to you, your health history, and what matters most to you. Our primary care team includes family medicine doctors who care for patients of all ages, and internal medicine doctors, who specialize in adult health. Take that first step today. It's an investment in your health for years to come. [MUSIC PLAYING]

Different types of primary care providers

UChicago Medicine offers a network of skilled PCPs and advanced practice providers throughout the greater Chicago area. With providers in Chicago, the south suburbs and Northwest Indiana, it’s easy to find expert care close to home.

Our team includes:

Family medicine doctors who care for patients of all ages
Geriatricians who specialize in care for adults age 65 and older
Internal medicine doctors who specialize in care for age 18+
Internal medicine-pediatrics (med-peds) doctors who are dually trained in internal medicine and pediatrics and care for patients of all ages
Pediatricians who care for newborns, children and teens

Your PCP is the best person to manage your health over time and should be your first contact in non-emergency situations. If you are dealing with a health emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency room right away.

What can a primary care physician do?

Your UChicago Medicine PCP offers a wide range of services. Here are some of the things you can expect:

Annual wellness exams and preventive screenings
Immunizations and developmental checkups for kids
Onsite lab tests and outpatient procedures (like blood sugar testing or urinalysis)
School and sports physicals
Same-day appointments for urgent medical issues (like coughs, infections, sprains or pains)
Ongoing care for chronic conditions like allergies, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, depression, diabetes and high blood pressure,

Best of all, your UChicago Medicine PCP is part of an extensive network of specialists and resources, ensuring you receive streamlined, coordinated care for any health concern.

How to schedule a primary care appointment

UChicago Medicine makes it easy to book a primary care visit with online scheduling and virtual visits. You can also call 1-888-824-0200 for assistance.

Same-day appointments are often available, giving you fast access when you need it most.

Take the first step today. It’s an investment in your health for years to come.

Choosing a Primary Care Doctor

Your primary care provider (PCP) is your main health care provider and is involved in your short and long-term medical care.

Find a primary care provider at UChicago Medicine