How to Become a New Patient at a Doctor's Office

Step 1: Find a provider who is accepting new patients

Start with your health insurance plan's online provider directory. Search for in-network primary care physicians, family medicine providers, or internists near you. Filter for "accepting new patients" if the option is available.

This step can take time. The US is projected to face a shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036, with 20,200 to 40,400 of those in primary care 1Ref 1Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) (2024).New AAMC Report Shows Continuing Projected Physician Shortage.US projected to face a shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036, including 20,200–40,400 primary care physicians; contributing factors include aging population and physician retirement. Many practices are simply not accepting new patients, especially in rural and underserved markets. Calling a practice to confirm their status before you show up saves time.

You can also ask friends or family for referrals, check reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Zocdoc, or call practices directly. Telehealth-first practices often have shorter wait times for new patient registration and may cover the same geography as your existing in-person care.

Step 2: Register and schedule your new patient appointment

Once you identify a practice, you can often register online through their website or a patient portal. Alternatively, call the front desk and ask to schedule a new patient appointment — sometimes called an "establish care" visit.

You will typically be asked for your name, date of birth, insurance information, and a brief reason for the visit. Some practices send intake forms digitally ahead of time; others hand you a clipboard when you arrive. Either way, set aside time to complete them thoroughly — they give the provider a foundation before they meet you.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

A new patient visit works best when you come prepared:

• Photo ID and insurance card
• List of all current medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements) with doses
• Prior medical records, lab results, or specialist notes from your previous provider
• Vaccination records if available
• List of past surgeries, hospitalizations, or significant diagnoses
• Contact information for other providers currently involved in your care
• A written list of your main health concerns so nothing gets lost in the conversation

What happens at a new patient visit?

An establish-care appointment is typically longer than a routine follow-up because the provider is building a baseline picture of your health from scratch. Expect a thorough health history conversation, a physical examination, a review of your medications and allergies, and a discussion of any immediate concerns.

Clinicians spend a substantial portion of ambulatory visit time on administrative tasks 2Ref 2Sinsky C, Colligan L, Li L, et al. (2016).Allocation of Physician Time in Ambulatory Practice: A Time and Motion Study in 4 Specialties.Direct observation of ambulatory physicians: clinicians spent significant time on administrative tasks during office visits; preparation reduces the fraction of time diverted from direct care, so coming prepared — medication list in hand, forms completed in advance — allows more time to focus on your actual health. Your new provider may order baseline lab work or screenings appropriate for your age and risk factors.

How do I request records from my previous provider?

You have the right to request your medical records from any prior provider. Most practices require a signed release-of-information form. Processing can take one to several weeks, so request early — ideally before or around the time you schedule your new patient appointment.

With Gale, your care team can help coordinate record requests. Your new provider may also be able to access records electronically through a health information exchange if your previous practice participates in one.