How to Find a New Doctor After You Move

Have you recently moved and are wondering how to continue quality care with a new doctor?

Not sure how to evaluate your options or avoid gaps in your treatment plan?

Relocating comes with a long list of to-dos, and one of the most important but often forgotten is maintaining consistent medical care. Whether you're managing a chronic condition or simply staying up-to-date with preventive health, finding a new doctor is essential to protecting your long-term well-being.

At PartnerMD, we've helped thousands of patients successfully navigate this transition. With decades of experience in concierge medicine and personalized primary care, we understand exactly what it takes to ensure that your care continues uninterrupted.

This article will walk you through how to:

• Research and vet doctors in your new area

• Evaluate whether they’re a fit for your health goals and insurance plan

• Transfer your records and prescriptions smoothly

By the end, you’ll feel confident in how to switch doctors when you move, with no gaps in your healthcare and a clear path forward.

Starting your doctor search

Moving to a new place often means starting from scratch with local providers, but that doesn’t mean you have to start blind. Here are three reliable ways to begin your search.

1. Research Local Providers Online

Use your health insurance company’s provider directory, tools like Healthgrades, and Google Maps to identify primary care physicians in your new area.

This is also a good opportunity to reassess what you want from your care. Do you prefer a traditional practice or a more personalized approach? What worked well with your last doctor, and what didn’t?

Look for:

• Areas of focus, like women’s health, chronic condition management, or preventive care

• Doctor’s credentials and education

• Reviews that speak to their communication style and bedside manner

• Whether they’re accepting new patients

2. Ask People You Trust

Friends, family, or coworkers in your new area can offer personal recommendations. These are often some of the most reliable ways to find doctors who are already trusted by people in your community.

You should also ask your current doctor if they have recommendations. Many physicians have professional networks and may know of a provider near your new home who shares their care philosophy.

3. Confirm Credentials and Check Reviews

Once you’ve built a list of possible doctors, take time to verify their credentials. Confirm that they are board-certified in their specialty and check for any disciplinary actions using your state’s medical board or the Federation of State Medical Boards.

Patient reviews can also offer helpful insight into how a doctor practices. Look for patterns in how patients describe their experience. Are appointments rushed? Does the doctor listen? Are the staff helpful and efficient?

What to Look For in a New Doctor

Now that you’ve narrowed your list, use these key factors to choose the best fit for your ongoing care.

Accessibility and Convenience

Start with the basics. Where is the office located, and how easy is it to get an appointment?

Ask about:

• Physician availability for new patients

• Office hours and emergency communication options

• Typical wait time for routine appointments

• Whether they offer same- or next-day appointments

These details can make a big difference in your ability to stay consistent with care, especially if you're balancing a busy schedule or managing a condition that needs attention.

Expertise That Matches Your Needs

Think about your medical history. If you’re living with a chronic condition or have ongoing health concerns, find a doctor who specializes in or has experience with those needs.

It’s also helpful to understand the difference between the two main types of primary care providers:

Internal Medicine Physicians (Internists)

• Specializes in adult medicine

• Often treat complex or chronic conditions

• Typically do not see children

Family Medicine Physicians

• See patients of all ages

• Offer care across a wide range of conditions

• Ideal for families or individuals who want one doctor for multiple life stages

Both provide primary care, so it comes down to your specific needs and preferences.

Doctor-Patient Relationship

The connection you have with your doctor matters. You should feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns, and knowing that your doctor truly listens.

During your first interaction, pay attention to how they communicate. You can also ask questions like:

• What is your typical appointment length?

• How do you approach preventive care?

• How do you coordinate care with specialists if needed?

These small conversations can reveal a lot about whether the doctor is a good fit for you long-term.

Check Insurance, Office Policies, and Logistics

Once you’ve found a doctor you like, make sure the practice fits with your health plan and preferences.

Insurance and Network Coverage

Check with your insurance company to confirm whether the doctor is in-network. This impacts how much you’ll pay for each visit and whether certain services are covered.

When calling the office, ask:

• Do you accept my specific insurance plan?

• Are there any additional fees or membership costs?

Knowing this upfront can prevent surprise bills and help you make the most of your plan.

Office Experience and Operations

Other details to consider:

• Is telehealth available?

• How do they handle referrals and lab work?

• What is the process for prescription renewals?

• Can you reach someone easily after hours?

These logistical elements directly affect the quality and convenience of your care.

Steps to Transition to a New Doctor

Once you’ve chosen your new provider, follow these steps to finalize the transition.

1. Transfer Your Medical Records

Your new doctor will need your past records to provide accurate, informed care. Most practices will help with this process once you sign a release form.

Be sure to ask:

• Will your team request my records directly?

• How long does the process typically take?

• Is there a fee involved?

2. Schedule a First Visit

Book a consultation or introductory appointment. This helps establish a relationship and gives you both a chance to ask questions and understand how the doctor practices.

Come prepared with:

• A summary of your medical history

• A list of current medications

• Any recent test results or imaging

3. Transfer Prescriptions

Don’t forget to move your active prescriptions to your new doctor and pharmacy. This ensures there are no gaps in your medication schedule.

To make the process easier:

• Bring your current pill bottles or a written list of medications and dosages.

• Ask your new doctor how they prefer to review and reissue prescriptions.

• Confirm your new pharmacy has received all active prescriptions.

Health Doesn't Have to Pause When You Move

Finding a new doctor after a move may seem overwhelming, but with the right steps, it can be smooth and empowering. Whether you want stronger communication, more personalized attention, or a better approach to preventive care, moving gives you the chance to choose a doctor who truly fits your needs.

At PartnerMD, we help patients establish primary care that supports long-term health. From seamless record transfers to same-day appointments, we make it easier to get the care you deserve, no matter where life takes you.

Moving is also the perfect opportunity to step back and evaluate your current primary care experience. Are you truly getting the access, attention, and preventive guidance you need, or is it time to explore something better?

Find out with our Primary Care Checkup, a quick online quiz that helps you assess your current physician and clarify what you’re really looking for in your next doctor.