Find an in-network doctor from over 1,000 insurance plans

Add your insurance to see in-network doctors
insurance link for 300
insurance link for 307
insurance link for 323
insurance link for 356
insurance link for 324
See all (1,000+)
315 verified Family Physicians in St Petersburg, FL
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
All providers
Availability last updated 05/11/2026
Availability last updated 05/11/2026
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Good service - May 7, 2026 by Rob S.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommendedExpertise in chronic diabetes + 9 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Darius attended Indiana University School of Medicine and was inducted into their chapter of the National Gold Humanism Honor Society. In her spare time, she relishes creating new recipes for her young family and crafting.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 17 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) + 4 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 7 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.00
·1 review
- May 9, 2026 by John A.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 6 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Mitchell Doyle attended the University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine and completed her residency training in Internal Medicine at UCLA Medical Center. With over 20 years of practice experience, she has an additional focus on nutritional medicine.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 37 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Allan Marks graduated from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1980 and completed residency at Stanford University Medical Center. When he’s not working, he enjoys playing tennis, hiking, and spending time with his wife and their three children.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 18 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·11 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait timeExpertise in chronic high blood pressure + 2 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · 20 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in insomnia + 6 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.00
·2 reviews
- May 6, 2026Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.30
·30 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 15 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in underactive thyroid + 5 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommendedExpertise in hiv/aids
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
- May 9, 2026 by Lillian T.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in high cholesterol + 9 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.20
·5 reviews
I never got any information about the appointment, and the doctor never called me. I finally called 10 minutes after my appointment and nobody reached out until an hour after. Will never be using her services again. ? - May 9, 2026Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 9 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.67
·3 reviews
I was no call no showedClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 3 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 1 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·18 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 4 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.20
·5 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in anxiety disorders + 9 more
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Thu, May 14
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.90
·30 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: Fri, May 15
Family Physician (Virtual)
1.00
·3 reviews
Well i never got to do any appointment at all. You all dont take Medicaid. So you all are for rich. God Don't Sleep. - May 9, 2026 by Dorothy M.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Fri, May 15
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
very good - Apr 24, 2026 by ollie C.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in bipolar disorder + 5 more ·
Read bio
Family Nurse Practitioner | Telehealth | U Be Well Healthcare I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and the founder of U Be Well Healthcare, a telehealth practice dedicated to providing accessible, compassionate, and patient-centered care. My clinical background includes primary care, ur...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·19 reviews
My experience with Dr Lawrence was wonderful. She was very professional and caring. I would highly recommend her. by GSClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Ms. Shereda Lawrence is a skilled family nurse practitioner. She practices at Health-base Primary care, where she provides virtual care to individuals seeking accessible, ongoing primary health support. Ms. Lawrence completed a doctoral degree in family health nursing at Chamberlain College of Nurs...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.92
·36 reviews
I got seen 20 mins before my appointment and everyone was very kind and direct with their communication. 10 out if 10 recommend - Jan 20, 2026 by Daniel N.Click to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 6 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Pedro Morales is a highly qualified and board-certified family medicine physician known for his unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare to his patients. With a solid educational foundation and linguistic versatility, he has established himself as a trusted healthcare professio...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.96
·93 reviews
I had a good experience today. The staff were kind, helpful, and welcoming. Doctor Confident was excellent. - Feb 3, 2025 by Jackson W.Click to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic kidney disease + 9 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Leonard Confident is a dedicated and compassionate family medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive healthcare to his patients. His multilingual proficiency, clinical training, and affiliations with respected healthcare institutions reflect his unwavering dedication to patient well...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
5.00
·3 reviews
Very friendly staff Very clean. - Mar 19, 2026 by paul Z.Click to read more
1 mi · 1955 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Moises Pichardo, PA-C, is a compassionate and skilled physician assistant dedicated to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. He earned his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Practice from Florida State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology fro...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.94
·158 reviews
Very attentive and explained everything thoroughly. Overall a good experience - Dec 1, 2025 by Elio C.Click to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Alex is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner in family medicine and primary care.Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·23 reviews
Dr Williams is really a nice guy who listens to you and is smart. I’m lucky to have met him - Jan 30, 2026 by Anthony C.Click to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a board-certified internal medicine physician with over 10 years of experience caring for adults across emergency, hospital, and outpatient primary care settings. My goal is to provide thoughtful, comprehensive medical care while building long-term relationships with my patients. I take a pers...Click to read more
Family Physician
13 mi · 3201 South Dale Mabry Hwy, Suite 101, Tampa, FL 33611
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
Family Physician
13 mi · 3201 South Dale Mabry Hwy, Suite 101, Tampa, FL 33611
Also offers video visitsAccepting new patientsExpertise in chronic diabetes + 7 more
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

Doctor
100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
I had a great experience! It’s a lot easier to go for services on Zocdoc than setting something in person at a private office.
Stephanie P
I checked out Zocdoc’s website and was pleasantly surprised. I read a lot of positive reviews from most of their providers...My only regret is that I didn’t make an appointment sooner.
Felicia P
I had resisted counseling for a long time...I could not find anyone who had room for me...Enter Zocdoc...I am so grateful.
Victoria L
National Public Radio
New York Times
Yahoo
Self.com
Verge
Wall Street Journal
Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Family Physician in St Petersburg?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Family Physician in St Petersburg, book an appointment, and see the Family Physician within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Family Physicians in St Petersburg who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a St Petersburg Family Physician who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a St Petersburg Family Physician who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Family Physician in St Petersburg?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Family Physicians in St Petersburg and book appointments instantly. You can search for St Petersburg Family Physicians by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Family Physician in St Petersburg?

When you search for St Petersburg Family Physicians on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Family Physicians in St Petersburg who match your preferences.


How can I find a St Petersburg Family Physician who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for St Petersburg Family Physicians with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Family Physician in St Petersburg?

You can use Zocdoc to find Family Physicians in St Petersburg who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Family Physician online in St Petersburg?

Family Physicians in St Petersburg on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Family Physicians who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Family Physician online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Family Physicians in St Petersburg who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Family Physician in St Petersburg who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Family Physician who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Family Physician in St Petersburg who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Family Physicians in St Petersburg. Many Family Physicians offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is a family physician?

A family physician can cater to a family's medical needs since they provide skilled and comprehensive medical care to all ages and genders. They can care for you at all phases of your life and evaluate, treat, and prevent a wide range of common injuries, illnesses, and ailments.


A family physician offers holistic care to patients from infancy to late adulthood, unlike other medical professionals who concentrate on a particular medical issue or region of the body. They can help diagnose and manage chronic conditions, acute injuries, and illnesses.


The career path of family physicians

Medical students can take up a wide range of specializations after completing their basic science, medical, and clinical education. Family medicine, which incorporates aspects of adult and pediatric medicine, is one such specialization. Most family medicine doctors complete seven years of medical school, three years of residency training, and four years of internship. 

However, some may spend an additional year or two pursuing a fellowship to practice their skills in a particular area, such as geriatrics, women's health, sports medicine, or obstetrics. 


Although not compulsory, some family physicians get certified by organizations such as the American Board of Physician Specialties, the American Board of Family Medicine, and the American Board of Medical Specialties. These organizations award certifications to doctors who pass their tests and complete the continuing education requirements to keep their licenses valid.


Subspecialties of family physicians

Some family medicine doctors pursue extra fellowship study after finishing their residency program to become subspecialists in one of the following fields

  • Adolescent medicine: It includes examining and treating common physical, psychological, social, and health concerns affecting people aged 10 to 19.
  • Geriatric medicine: Geriatric medicine focuses on the research and treatment of older adults, focusing on the aging process and its changes.
  • Hospice and palliative medicine: It involves examining and treating people with terminal illnesses.
  • Pain medicine: Pain medicine centers around the study/care of patients with acute/chronic pain, including that caused by cancer.
  • Sleep medicine: Sleep medicine examines and treats illnesses that interfere with or develop during sleep.
  • Sports medicine: Specialists in this field analyze, diagnose, and care for injuries sustained during sports and exercise.


How does internal medicine differ from family medicine?

Family medicine and internal medicine serve different patient populations and medical needs. Family medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions in individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. In contrast, internal medicine specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases affecting adults.


Family medicine covers various subspecialties, including acute illness management, chronic disease treatment, and preventive care. On the other hand, internal medicine emphasizes general medical and health needs with a specific focus on adult patients.


Additionally, internists (specialists in internal medicine) primarily provide inpatient care. While family doctors can also offer inpatient treatment, their primary training focuses on outpatient care, and they often refer patients to specialists for hospital-based services when necessary.


How do general practice and family medicine differ?

With numerous medical specialties, it can be challenging to determine which doctor to consult. While you may know which specialist to visit for heart conditions or joint pain, what about general or unexplained symptoms? Should you see a family physician or a general practitioner? Let’s explore their differences.


Family physicians provide comprehensive primary care, addressing various health concerns for individuals of all ages. In contrast, general practitioners (GPs) offer primary care without specializing in a particular field. Their role is similar to that of urgent care providers, diagnosing and treating various conditions while referring patients to specialists when necessary. GPs work in urgent care centers, hospitals, and clinics, managing diverse health issues, maintaining medical records, and offering minor suturing and wound care services.


Many general practice clinics have labs and diagnostic tools, enabling them to conduct medical tests on-site. Their primary goal is to provide effective treatment and reduce the need for hospitalization whenever possible.


What are the advantages of having a long-term relationship with a family physician?

There are several ways in which family physicians can be beneficial. They offer various medical services throughout your life and are well-equipped to deal with many illnesses and conditions. Some benefits of having a family physician in your healthcare network are: 

  • They are reliable confidants: It is comforting to meet a friendly face who is acquainted with your medical history if you are feeling unwell, battling discomfort, or coping with an uncomfortable health situation.
  • They understand you: When you visit the same physician repeatedly over a long period, they truly get to know you, your lifestyle, your routines, and your general health and, as a result, can diagnose and treat you well.
  • They care about your overall well-being: Family physicians perform regular examinations. They can help manage several chronic and acute medical disorders.
  • They enhance your health and longevity: It is easier for them to guide you in choosing the best course of treatment when a member of your medical team is well-versed in your history.


How do you prepare for your first appointment with a family physician?

A typical appointment with a family physician lasts 15-20 minutes. However, you can be allowed more time at the doctor's discretion. Preparing for an appointment with a family physician near you can help you make the most of your consultation. Here's what you need to know and bring to your first appointment:

  • Make a list of questions that you would like to ask your doctor. Try to sort the questions from most important to least important, as you will have a limited time.
  • Gather your medical records, including diagnoses from previous doctors and medical tests, if any. Try to bring as much information about your medical history as possible. It should also include a list of your current medications or supplements.
  • Reach the clinic beforehand to avoid waiting in lines and understanding any prerequisite requirements.
  • Talk to your doctor openly during your appointment. Show them your medical records and medical history and ask about your concerns regarding your symptoms. Follow the list and tell them about your lifestyle, such as your diet and physical activities. You may also need to share your personal or professional lifestyle to make them understand your current situation better.
  • Taking a family member or a friend with you is a good decision. They will help you be comfortable during your first appointment and listen to the doctor with you. They can also help ask relevant questions you may overlook if you were to be alone. You should also notify the doctor if you need an interpreter or have a particular disability, such as hearing or speech impairment. They will carry out their duty to do what is needed.


You should consider many factors when choosing the best family doctor. It is good advice to seek a physician who provides care after hours. It will help to know that they will be there if you have an emergency, and they can guide you to get the appropriate medications or help when you need it.


Family physician or emergency room: where should you go?

Whether you need primary or emergency care will depend on what symptoms you are currently experiencing. You must learn how to identify an emergency so that you can get the proper care at the right time and help save a life. Correctly interpreting an emergency will also help you distinguish between situations that do not require immediate attention versus those that do. 


Family physicians provide care for ongoing medical needs, including chronic illness management, medication adjustment, and treatment of minor illnesses and injuries. Family physicians or other primary care practitioners are the best option for a routine checkup or annual physical. This also helps to detect diseases in their earlier stages and start treatment before disease progression.

 

See your family doctor/physician or primary care provider if: 

  • You need your care coordinated with other specialists.
  • You need to change your medications, check for interactions with other medicines you are taking, or get prescription refills. 
  • You need a doctor's guidance on the proper diet and exercise plan. 
  • You have a mild cold, fever, or cough. 
  • You need diagnostic tests like an electrocardiogram to evaluate your heart health.  
  • You need mental health resources in your community. 
  • You have an ear infection or urinary tract infection. 
  • You need a chronic condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure managed. 
  • You have to get vaccinations, immunizations, or other preventive care services 
  • You experience a sudden change in mood or think you might have mental health issues like depression or addiction. 
  • You have suffered minor injuries like a muscle sprain or strain. 
  • You require wound care for a small injury. 
  • You have a stomach ache or are experiencing nausea or dehydration. 


Specific symptoms can be a sign of life-threatening conditions. Do not hesitate to call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department if you experience the following warning signs: 

  • Moderate or severe allergic reactions.
  • Cuts or severe burns.
  • Choking or difficulty breathing.
  • Fractures or head injuries. 
  • Excessive sleepiness, irritability, and feeding or eating difficulties in babies or children.
  • Any sudden or severe pain.
  • Chest pain, upper abdominal pain, or pressure that lasts for two minutes or more
  • Loss of blood
  • Signs of a heart attack such as cold sweats, pain in the shoulder, chest tightness, and lightheadedness. 
  • Coughing or vomiting blood
  • Decreased responsiveness or alertness in babies or children.
  • Sudden vision changes. 
  • Inability to stand up or unsteady walking.
  • Unconsciousness, disorientation, or inability to stay awake.
  • Sudden numbness in the feet, arms, or legs.
  • Seizures
  • Fever with a rash or neck stiffness. 
  • Confusion and changes in mental status or display of unusual behavior.


Locate a good family physician near you in Saint Petersburg, FL

The doctor-patient bond is the backbone of clinical treatments and a good relationship between your family doctor and you is crucial. However, finding a reliable and experienced family doctor in your neighborhood may take time and effort. With the help of Zocdoc, you can locate and make appointments with some of the best family doctors in Saint Petersburg, Florida, within minutes.


Enter your disease, specialty, location, preferred appointment time, and insurance plan to start searching. You will see a comprehensive list of top-rated specialists based on the criteria you have entered. You can filter the healthcare professionals based on their gender, hospital affiliations, languages they speak, and whether they treat children. You can also use the insurance detector to identify in-network providers if you need clarification on your policy's coverage. You may add a photo of your medical insurance card on Zocdoc. It will help you accurately select your insurance plan and find an in-network provider. However, uploading a photo of your medical insurance card is not mandatory. If you do not wish to upload a photo, add your insurance information to your account by manually picking your plan from a list. For other insurance-related queries, head over to Zocdoc's patient help center or contact Zocdoc's service team, which is available 365 days a year via email or chat. 


Each physician has a detailed profile on Zocdoc that includes an overview of their educational background, practice locations, visitation details, accreditations, awards, and, most importantly, verified patient reviews and ratings. You can find the best family physicians in your vicinity by reading their reviews to see how they treat their patients individually. Once you have chosen the most suitable family physician for your specific needs, you can schedule an in-person or online appointment based on their availability.


With Zocdoc, you can schedule appointments before, during, and after office hours based on the family physician's availability. You may also book appointments on weekends and holidays if their schedule allows.


Booking appointments with family physicians near you on Zocdoc is easy, free, and secure!


Family physician statistics for Florida

According to the 2021 Physician Workforce Annual Report published by Florida Health, approximately 89,396 physicians had a license to work in Florida during the survey year of 2020–21. Family medicine (14.6% or 7,951), internal medicine (28.2% or 15,339), and pediatrics (8.1% or 4,411) were the top three specialty groups for doctors providing direct patient care.


According to data synthesized by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, a component of the metro statistical area of Florida, had 840 active family physicians as of May 2021. It assessed the location quotient for the place to be 0.89. The location quotient is the proportion of local occupational employment concentration to the average concentration throughout the country. A location quotient of less than one implies that the occupation is less prevalent in the area.


Sources

Texas Medical Institute

American Academy of Family Physicians[1]

Medical University of the Americas

Pomona Valley Health Centers

Florida Health

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

American Academy of Family Physicians[2]

Washington State Health Care Authority

Healthline

UnityPoint Health

EmergencyPhysicians

Mayo Clinic

University of Florida Health Jacksonville

New Horizon Family Health Services

Matthews Internal Medicine

Advanced Medical Clinic


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

Zocdoc›Family Physicians›Tampa, FL›St Petersburg, FL