If your student has been using Lafene Health Center as their healthcare provider while they’ve been attending K-State and they are graduating next month, it’s time to start looking for a primary care provider where they are relocating and planning to live. This is especially important if they have any chronic illnesses or are on any chronic medications. It’s possible they were using a pediatric clinic before coming to K-State and they will no longer be eligible to use a pediatric office. Finding a new provider can be a challenge and may be something they haven’t even thought about. Staying healthy is important and choosing the right provider is one of the most important decisions they will make about their healthcare.
More often than not, things do not move as quickly in the medical marketplace as they do at Lafene and K-State. In some cases, it can take up to six months or longer to get established with a primary care physician. Students don’t want to have a week of daily medications left and then be scrambling to find a provider that can see them and give them a refill. If they are due for an annual physical, it can take two to three months before that type of appointment can be made with a new provider.
Below are four steps to take when looking for a provider:
- Identify providers in your network. Call your insurance company to find providers who take your health coverage.
- Ask around. Ask friends or family for recommendations and read online reviews for doctors in your area.
- Call the provider’s office. Ask them questions to help you decide. Are they accepting new patients? Where are they located? Will appointment times work with your schedule?
- Give them a try! It may take more than one visit to figure out if a provider is the right one.
Students can request their medical records from Lafene Health Center by completing a Records Release Form. The medical record is helpful in establishing a relationship with a new provider.