Moving to a new country can be confusing when you’re not familiar with the healthcare system. In the United States, there are many different types of healthcare professionals who provide medical services and care for patients. Understanding the different roles and responsibilities of providers can help immigrants determine who are the right persons to consult for various health needs.
This guide covers common types of healthcare providers in the U.S. It will explain their services, when you should see them, and how they coordinate care. With this knowledge, immigrants can better navigate the system and get the right care.
Primary Care Provider
Primary care providers serve as your main healthcare contact for overall health and basic medical needs. They offer preventive care, diagnose and treat common illnesses, and manage chronic health conditions.
Types of primary care providers:
- Family practice physician – treats patients of all ages
- Internal medicine physician – treats adult patients
- Pediatrician – treat children from birth to age 18
- Nurse practitioner – has advanced training in nursing and can diagnose, prescribe
- Physician assistant – practices medicine with physician supervision
Services offered:
- Annual physical exams and routine health screenings
- Vaccinations
- Acute and chronic condition management
- Basic lab tests and imaging
- Minor treatments – stitches, mole removal
- Referrals to specialists when needed
When to see primary care:
- Annual physical exams and preventive health visits
- New health concerns or conditions
- Management of ongoing conditions like high blood pressure
- Minor illnesses and injuries that need a diagnosis
Specialist Providers
Specialists are physicians who focus on specific areas of medicine. They have advanced training in treating complex conditions affecting a particular body system or organ.
Examples of specialists:
- Cardiologists – heart conditions
- Orthopedists – bones, muscles, joints
- OB/GYNs – address women’s health care and reproductive health
- Dermatologists – skin disorders
- Oncologists – cancer
- Endocrinologists – hormonal disorders
Services offered:
- Diagnose and treat complex conditions related to their specialty
- Advanced care and procedures to manage diseases
- Surgical treatment options in some specialties
When to see specialists:
- Referral from a primary care provider for suspected conditions
- Ongoing management of a chronic illness
- Annual specialty-specific health exams
Nurse Practitioner
Nurses provide invaluable frontline medical care and assist with a wide range of health services – from primary care to surgery assistance. They work closely with doctors to care for patients. They can also can diagnose and prescribe medications for patients.
Other Types of nurses:
- Licensed practical nurses (LPNs)
- Registered nurses (RNs)
- Clinical nurse specialists – experts in niche specialty
Services provided:
- Administer medications, vaccines
- Perform diagnostic tests – MRIs, X-rays
- Assist in surgeries and procedures
- Educate patients on health conditions
- Provide emotional support and counseling
When you may see nurses:
- At annual check-ups, clinics, hospitals
- Getting vaccinated or screened
- Having blood drawn
- Surgical procedures
- Childbirth and recovery
FAQ - Medical Doctors vs. Nurse Practitioners
While both can serve as primary care providers, there are some key differences between doctors and nurse practitioners:
- Training: Doctors complete four years of medical school plus a residency program. Nurse practitioners (NPs) undergo a two-year masters-level nursing program with advanced clinical training.
- Scope: Medical doctors provide the full scope of primary care and can practice all areas of medicine. NPs practice within a more defined scope, relying on standards of care.
- Prescriptions: In most states, NPs can prescribe medication, including controlled substances, just like physicians.
- Practice: Many NPs have their own independent primary care practices. Others work alongside physicians in clinics.
- Cost: Visits with NPs may have lower out-of-pocket costs for patients.
- Access: NPs help improve access to primary care, especially in rural or underserved areas. Appointment availability may be better.
While doctors receive more extensive medical training, nurse practitioners are highly skilled health care providers who can treat many common conditions and promote general wellness.
Checking your insurance plan for coverage details can help decide which option may be most accessible and affordable.
Other Providers
There are many other types of healthcare professionals who fulfill important roles:
- A pharmacist dispenses medications, advises on drug therapies, and processes drug prescriptions
- Physical therapists help improve mobility and reduce pain
- Mental health providers like psychologists and psychiatrists treat emotional and mental health disorders
- Licensed dieticians provide personalized nutrition counseling
Coordinated Care
Primary care providers, specialists, nurses, and other professionals work together to provide coordinated patient care. The primary care provider oversees the big picture of your health. Specialists provide focused expertise. Nurses assist all providers and connect care. Understanding the roles of different providers helps immigrants actively participate in care.
Here are some tips when getting care:
- Keep all your providers updated on medications, treatments, test results
- Share any changes in your health condition with your primary provider
- Before specialty procedures, discuss with your primary provider to coordinate care
- clarification anytime you have questions about your care
Make Sure to Coordinate Your Health Care Providers with the Correct Insurance
Did you know immigrant citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders), and even temporary visitors with work visas are eligible for health insurance in the U.S.?
Just like the types of health care providers, there are so important things to know to avoid any major financial mistakes.
Choosing healthcare providers that are in-network with your health insurance plan is key to avoiding large out-of-pocket expenses. Here are some tips:
- Research provider networks when comparing health insurance plans. Look for ones covering your current doctors.
- When selecting new providers, ask if they are in-network with your insurance carrier.
- Check your plan’s online provider directory to confirm providers are participating. Lists change periodically.
- For planned hospital care, choose an in-network facility and confirm all staff involved also participate.
- If referred to an out-of-network specialist, check for in-network alternatives.
- Request pre-authorizations when required by your insurance plan before procedures.
- Understand your out-of-network benefits and costs, if you need to go out-of-network.
Navigating health insurance can be confusing. Resources like HealthSherpa.com can help compare plans and find one that best covers your preferred doctors and hospitals. Speaking to a licensed insurance agent (they offer free consultations) is also recommended to fully understand plan benefits and how to maximize coverage. With some research upfront, you can find an optimal health plan.
Find the Right Healthcare Provider for Your Family's Needs
Getting quality healthcare requires forming connections with the right providers. Educating yourself about the various professionals who may care for you throughout your lifetime can help immigrants access the best healthcare services.
