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315 verified Doctors in Orange, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 06/23/2026
Availability last updated 06/23/2026
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·5 reviews
It was crazy busy and doctor and his team were extremely efficient and performed great service and care. - Jun 18, 2026 by Philip Y.Click to read more
48.5 mi · 15343 Parthenia St, North Hills, CA 91343
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, Medicare + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended
Next available: today
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Kristi Kwan is a board-certified family medicine physician practicing with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group in Orange, CA.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·7 reviews
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 306, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Eddie Shum is a Family Medicine physician practicing in Orange County, CA.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·39 reviews
Punctual - Oct 12, 2023 by Jeffrey R.Click to read more
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 305, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care My main goal and interest is making a positive difference in people's lives through health. I believe in preventing illness and recognize the importance of working together to achieve well-being. As a family physician trained at the University of California, Irvine—where I earne...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 204, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care I became a physician because I wanted to give compassionate care to others. I enjoy the one-on-one relationships I develop with my patients, and enjoy the time spent providing service to them. Hobbies In my free time, I enjoy motorcycle riding, water sports, carpentry and spendin...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·30 reviews
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Kate Monahan is an internist with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group practicing in Orange, CAClick to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
5.00
·39 reviews
Punctual - Oct 12, 2023 by Jeffrey R.Click to read more
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care My main goal and interest is making a positive difference in people's lives through health. I believe in preventing illness and recognize the importance of working together to achieve well-being. As a family physician trained at the University of California, Irvine—where I earne...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 306, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Being a physician was a natural calling for me. I strive to deliver the best care at all times while healing and comforting patients that I see. I spend every free minute of my time with my three adorable boys, in addition to my husband.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.98
·42 reviews
I would go back. No issues I see.Click to read more
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Sonja Abbassi is an internist with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group. She believes being a physician is the privilege to help and support people. She treats her patients as she treats her family, without any exceptions. Her clinical interests include cholesterol, diabetes, nutrition, stress, str...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·1 review
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Kristi Kwan is a board-certified family medicine physician practicing with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group in Orange, CA.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
5.00
·32 reviews
I have had two really bad experiences with doctors since moving out here and he was very nice, helpful and encouraging. Finally a good experience - Sep 10, 2024 by Matthew R.Click to read more
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care I went into family medicine to provide comprehensive, continuous, and caring medical services to the entire family. I completed my medical education at Yonsei University College of Medicine, followed by an internship at Methodist Hospital and a residency at Catholic Medical Cent...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·32 reviews
I have had two really bad experiences with doctors since moving out here and he was very nice, helpful and encouraging. Finally a good experience - Sep 10, 2024 by Matthew R.Click to read more
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 204, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care I went into family medicine to provide comprehensive, continuous, and caring medical services to the entire family. I completed my medical education at Yonsei University College of Medicine, followed by an internship at Methodist Hospital and a residency at Catholic Medical Cent...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care I became a physician because I wanted to give compassionate care to others. I enjoy the one-on-one relationships I develop with my patients, and enjoy the time spent providing service to them. Hobbies In my free time, I enjoy motorcycle riding, water sports, carpentry and spendin...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.97
·36 reviews
Very friendly and professional. Addressed all my concerns and offered advice/solutions. - Jan 18, 2024 by Mark K.Click to read more
1 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Matthew Schroeder is a family physician and primary care doctor in California who practices at St. Joseph - Family Medicine. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Illinois, Rockford, IL, and completed his residency at PIH Health Whittier Hospital in Whittier, CA. Dr. Sc...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Being a physician was a natural calling for me. I strive to deliver the best care at all times while healing and comforting patients that I see. I spend every free minute of my time with my three adorable boys, in addition to my husband.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I believe that the essence of medicine is caring for people. The doctor-patient relationship is a privilege to be respected and nurtured by the physician. I practice medicine in a considerate, patient-oriented manner and advocate on behalf of my patients, despite the limits of managed care.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
2.5 mi · 845 W La Veta Ave, Ste 108, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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My goal is to provide quality care to patients of all ages, and to empower my patients to take charge of their own health. As an osteopathic family practice physician, I strive to treat the patient as a whole person. I thoroughly enjoy my profession, and truly hope to make a difference in the lives ...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.88
·16 reviews
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Vincent Pan is a board certified Family Medicine physician. An Orange County native, he completed medical school at Touro Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine before finishing his residency at Loma Linda University Health. He has clinical experience in FQHC, private practice, preventative heal...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
2.5 mi · 845 W La Veta Ave, Ste 108, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Howard provides state-of-the-art medical care, using the latest evidence-based medical techniques. He believes that patients should be treated as if they were his own family members. Dr. Howard loves practicing family medicine because he can develop long-term relationships with his patients. Whe...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Howard provides state-of-the-art medical care, using the latest evidence-based medical techniques. He believes that patients should be treated as if they were his own family members. Dr. Howard loves practicing family medicine because he can develop long-term relationships with his patients. Whe...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My goal is to provide quality care to patients of all ages, and to empower my patients to take charge of their own health. As an osteopathic family practice physician, I strive to treat the patient as a whole person. I thoroughly enjoy my profession, and truly hope to make a difference in the lives ...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.99
·75 reviews
Dr. Pham-Wightman was so great! I got everything I wanted done efficiently in one visit. Amazing! - Jul 10, 2024Click to read more
2.5 mi · 845 W La Veta Ave, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Chelsea Pham-Wightman is a board-certified Family Medicine Physician who recently graduated from the University of Iowa residency program. She is returning to Orange County, where she was born and raised. Dr. Pham earned her Doctor of Medicine from Ross University School of Medicine and complete...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.99
·75 reviews
Dr. Pham-Wightman was so great! I got everything I wanted done efficiently in one visit. Amazing! - Jul 10, 2024Click to read more
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Chelsea Pham-Wightman is a board-certified Family Medicine Physician who recently graduated from the University of Iowa residency program. She is returning to Orange County, where she was born and raised. Dr. Pham earned her Doctor of Medicine from Ross University School of Medicine and complete...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Jeremy Feck is board certified in Family Medicine. He completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine before finishing his residency at Mercy Medical Center in Redding California. Dr. Feck’s areas of expertise and clinical areas of interest include care for patient’s of all...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
2.5 mi · 845 W La Veta Ave, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Jenny Wang is a boardcertified family medicine physician who has been in practice at community health centers dedicated to helping underserved populations and promoting health equity. She has relocated to Orange County in 2022 and looks forward to continue to care for a diverse patient populatio...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.92
·52 reviews
Very thorough, made me feel safe talking about my concerns. Will be going back. - May 12, 2023 by Maria B.Click to read more
2.5 mi · 1095 Irvine Blvd, Tustin, CA 92780
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
While I enjoy all aspects of adult medicine, I particularly appreciate caring for the elderly. Older adults have unique needs, concerns, and issues, and protecting their health requires not only expertise in chronic and complex health conditions but also a willingness to listen carefully and proacti...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.92
·52 reviews
Very thorough, made me feel safe talking about my concerns. Will be going back. - May 12, 2023 by Maria B.Click to read more
Tustin, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
While I enjoy all aspects of adult medicine, I particularly appreciate caring for the elderly. Older adults have unique needs, concerns, and issues, and protecting their health requires not only expertise in chronic and complex health conditions but also a willingness to listen carefully and proacti...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·33 reviews
2.5 mi · 1095 Irvine Blvd, Tustin, CA 92780
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Please note that this provider only sees adult patients. Dr. Drumil Bhatt is an internal medicine physician with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group practicing in Tustin, CA. Dr. Bhatt attended medical school at Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his internship and residency at Harbor-UCLA M...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
3 mi · 2212 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
For Dr. Jane Curtis, health care is a partnership between her patient and herself. By carefully listening she can understand their needs and concerns. By taking the time to answer her patient’s questions, her patients can make solid, informed choices about how to achieve good health. She specializes...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
Santa Ana, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
For Dr. Jane Curtis, health care is a partnership between her patient and herself. By carefully listening she can understand their needs and concerns. By taking the time to answer her patient’s questions, her patients can make solid, informed choices about how to achieve good health. She specializes...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.56
·9 reviews
My appointment was great. I was greeted by a friendly staff office that checks me in right away and seen by my provider right away . - Aug 20, 2025 by Beatriz H.Click to read more
3 mi · 2212 E 4th St, Santa Ana, CA 92705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Crystal Fame is a Family Medicine physician practicing in Orange County, CA.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.39
·131 reviews
Dr told me my test results were great when in fact they were not - May 26, 2024 by Ayaka H.Click to read more
Santa Ana, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am passionate about transforming lives through preventive care, helping individuals achieve a healthier and more fulfilling life. My dedication to bridging healthcare disparities and expanding access to care drives me to embrace new medical advancements that reach underserved populations. As a pr...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.85
·27 reviews
4.5 mi · 13400 Jamboree Rd, Ste 200, Irvine, CA 92602
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Laura Leon, MD is a family medicine physician with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group practicing in Irvine, CA.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
5.00
·30 reviews
Irvine, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Billy Zhang is a board-certified Internist with an eclectic background, having trained in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and working as a primary care provider in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Zhang's area of interest is providing patient centered care, understanding the best way to team up and address bo...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·35 reviews
New patient so lot to cover listened to me and added comments have appointment for follow up and yearly checkup - Mar 17, 2023 by Peggy H.Click to read more
4.5 mi · 13400 Jamboree Rd, Ste 200, Irvine, CA 92602
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Kiana Nouri is a family medicine physician with St. Jude Heritage Medical Group. She earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific. Dr. Nouri completed both her internship and residency at Northridge Ho...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.85
·27 reviews
Irvine, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Laura Leon, MD is a family medicine physician with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group practicing in Irvine, CA.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.96
·99 reviews
Very caring. - Sep 29, 2022 by Donna Y.Click to read more
6 mi · 12942 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92840
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Hien Nguyen is a dedicated and diligent primary care doctor and family physician. He received his medical degree from the Western University of Health Sciences. He then completed an internship and residency at Pomona Valley Medical Center and is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.96
·99 reviews
Very caring. - Sep 29, 2022 by Donna Y.Click to read more
Garden Grove, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Hien Nguyen is a dedicated and diligent primary care doctor and family physician. He received his medical degree from the Western University of Health Sciences. He then completed an internship and residency at Pomona Valley Medical Center and is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.98
·47 reviews
Dr. Hernandez was very nice and professional. Great bedside manner. His office staff was very friendly as well. - Jan 2, 2023 by David M.Click to read more
Garden Grove, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Michael Hernandez is a family physician and primary care doctor at St. Joseph - Family Medicine. He treats the residents of Garden Grove, CA, for common ailments and injuries. He also performs annual check-ups, pap smear examinations, general consultations and follow-ups, and birth control/contr...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.98
·47 reviews
Dr. Hernandez was very nice and professional. Great bedside manner. His office staff was very friendly as well. - Jan 2, 2023 by David M.Click to read more
6 mi · 12942 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92840
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Michael Hernandez is a family physician and primary care doctor at St. Joseph - Family Medicine. He treats the residents of Garden Grove, CA, for common ailments and injuries. He also performs annual check-ups, pap smear examinations, general consultations and follow-ups, and birth control/contr...Click to read more
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Primary Care Physician
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Primary Care Doctor in Orange?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Primary Care Doctor in Orange, book an appointment, and see the Primary Care Doctor within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Doctors in Orange who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find an Orange Primary Care Doctor who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Orange Primary Care Doctor 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 Primary Care Doctor in Orange?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Doctors in Orange and book appointments instantly. You can search for Orange Doctors 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 Primary Care Doctor in Orange?

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


How can I find an Orange Primary Care Doctor who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Orange Doctors with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Primary Care Doctor in Orange?

You can use Zocdoc to find Doctors in Orange 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 Primary Care Doctor online in Orange?

Doctors in Orange 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 Doctors who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Primary Care Doctor 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 Doctors in Orange 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 Primary Care Doctor in Orange who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Primary Care Doctor 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 Primary Care Doctor in Orange who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Doctors in Orange. Many Doctors offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who are primary care doctors?

Primary care physicians (PCPs) care for your fundamental medical needs and manage chronic illnesses. A primary care physician keeps track of your family's medical information and guides patients to get proper care in an emergency. To determine the source of your discomfort, they run diagnostic tests before initiating treatment. PCPs create a personalized treatment plan based on the diagnostic reports to solve your medical problems.


However, unlike general doctors, some PCPs specialize in disciplines other than primary care. They also help minimize treatment hassles during severe conditions and suggest preventive care tips to live healthier lives. They work in different settings, such as:

  • Clinics
  • Hospitals 
  • Long-term care facility centers
  • Inpatient and outpatient hospital settings
  • Group practices and more



Education and training of a primary care doctor

A PCP goes through years of medical study and training. They must have all these qualifications to practice as a licensed doctor:

  • An undergraduate degree in pre-med subjects
  • Graduate degree from medical school with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)
  • Pass board exams for either the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination of the United States (COMPLEX-USA)
  • Residency training for 3-7 years, where they do rotations in different primary care specialties like obstetrics, family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, general surgery, etc.
  • Some doctors undergo higher fellowship training in niche areas of their specialization—a subspecialty. For instance, a pediatrician might complete a fellowship in adolescent medicine.
  • After their education and clinical training, PCPs must pass relevant licensure examinations to work in different states. 



Role of a PCP in healthcare

It is essential to maintain good health to live a happy life. Our working ability naturally reduces when we have an illness or face any health issue. Thus, having a primary care doctor in your contacts is essential for optimum health. Here are a few reasons why PCPs are crucial in the healthcare system:

  • Medical record: Primary care doctors keep a medical history record of their regular patients. Thus, having a PCP helps in knowing one's medical history and getting the proper medical care to deal with serious health problems. 
  • Preventive care treatment: Taking care of initial symptoms before a condition becomes severe is always better. PCPs can provide preventative care treatment and suggest valuable tips to maintain good health. In addition to preventive care, they also provide immunization. 
  • Manage prolonged illnesses: Conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and more can seriously affect people if left untreated for a long time. A primary care doctor can help patients avoid such situations through regular screening. 
  • Recommendations: Some health conditions require special medical attention. PCPs also connect you with other medical specialists to ensure proper treatment is delivered on time.
  • Wound care: Primary care doctors provide wound care and treat minor injuries to make them heal faster.



When to visit a primary care doctor?

Whenever you have health-related doubts, call your primary care provider for consultation. You can also visit your PCP for regular checkups and screening tests to know if you need treatment. Here are some common reasons to seek a primary care doctor:

  • Common cold and flu symptoms
  • Viral infection 
  • Ear pain
  • Severe headaches that last long
  • High fever 
  • Rashes and allergies 
  • Mild wheezing 
  • Stomach pain 
  • Digestion issues 
  • Breathing sickness 
  • Chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, high blood pressure, arthritis, substance use disorder
  • Urgent conditions like sports injuries, urinary tract infections, insect bites, sprains, bumps and bruises, sore throat
  • Women's health concerns like menopause, thyroid problems, postpartum depression, osteoporosis, urinary incontinence


Besides the above issues, you can connect with a primary care doctor to treat acute conditions like asthma attacks, burns, broken bones, etc. 


Types of primary care doctors

Knowing the areas of specialization of a primary care doctor helps you choose the right specialist for your unique condition. Here are the types of primary care doctors you need to know:

  • Family medicine doctors: Family medicine doctors are primary care doctors specializing in providing comprehensive care for the entire family. They focus on diagnosing and treating various health conditions. They provide preventive care, including vaccines and routine physicals, to help patients maintain their health.
  • Pediatricians: Pediatricians focus on caring for infants, children, and adolescents. They undergo training to diagnose and treat childhood illnesses, perform routine physicals and immunizations, and guide parents on best caring for their child's health.
  • Internal medicine doctors: Internal medicine doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating illnesses and diseases in adults (18 and above). They may also provide preventive care, such as routine physicals, vaccinations, and disease screenings.
  • Geriatricians: Geriatricians care for elderly patients (close to 65 years and above). They train to diagnose and treat age-related diseases and conditions and provide preventive care.
  • OB/GYNs: Obstetrician-gynecologists specialize in providing care for women. They diagnose and treat reproductive health issues and gynecological conditions, perform routine checkups, and provide family planning and contraception advice. They also attend to pregnant patients and help manage the requirements and issues related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Psychiatrists: Medical doctors focusing on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. They provide a range of treatments, including psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications, to help patients manage their mental health.


Each type of primary care doctor is vital in providing comprehensive patient care. As a patient, it's essential to understand the various types of primary care doctors and what services they provide. Doing so can ensure that you get the best care possible.


How do you select a primary care doctor for your health care needs?

Here are the top tips on choosing the best primary care doctor near you for long-term care and treatment.


  • Expert doctor for unique health needs: You must choose a certified doctor specializing in your health issues. You can choose from different specialists in primary care, such as pediatrics (child medicine), internal medicine (internist), family practice, and general practice. If your child has health issues, it is best to see a pediatric doctor. See an internist if you are an adult with internal organ health issues. Seek a family or general physician for general health checks and preventive care. 


  • Seek referrals: Referrals and recommendations are a great way to find a qualified primary care doctor suitable for your medical problems. Ask your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, and acquaintances who have recently seen a doctor or are associated with a physician for long-term primary care. They can provide genuine suggestions on the best primary care doctors near you. It'll help you make an informed choice.  


  • Doctors in your network: If you have insurance, check your area's list of primary care doctors under your insurance plan. You'll spend less visiting "in-network" doctors, but check the doctor's credentials before booking an appointment. Also, reconfirm their charges before planning a visit. Most insurance plans have a panel of board-certified doctors for an area or locality. Check with your insurance service provider and choose accordingly. 


  • Travel time: It helps to choose a doctor close to your home or office and adhere to the regular visit schedules; this will save you travel time. In emergencies, if the doctor is nearby, it is easier for them to attend to you at your place. 


Finding the best primary care doctor near you in Orange, CA

Finding a qualified primary care doctor can be challenging with no proper guidance. Thankfully, Zocdoc is here to help and guide you in searching for the right practitioner! You can search according to your health condition, specialization, location, preferred appointment date, and insurance plan. Enter these details in our search engine after registering with us, and get access to our non-exhaustive directory of the best PCP profiles matching your requirements.


If unsure of your insurance details, use the Zocdoc insurance detector to scan your insurance card, filter out the in-network PCP, and save those extra bucks! 


Every Zocdoc provider profile is unique to the medical professional. You can tap on the profile to learn about their education, qualifications, certifications, specialization, availability, language proficiency, and whether they provide pediatric care. Once you have shortlisted the best primary care doctor near you, read previous patients' verified reviews and ratings on the profile to know more about the PCP's work ethic and bedside manners. Once you have chosen, you can easily book an in-person or online appointment! Look for a purple video icon on the doctor's profile to check if they are available for online consultation. 


All bookings made on Zocdoc are simple, secure, and free!


Primary Care Workforce Statistics of California

A report published by the American Academy of Family Physicians shows that in 2018, California had nearly 28,644 PCPs providing direct care to patients, of which approximately 10,363 were family physicians. In other words, family physicians made up almost 36% of its healthcare system, compared to about 40% in the Pacific Census Division. In other words, California had approximately 72 PCPs per 100,000 people, compared to around 81 per 100,000 people nationwide.


According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2022, there were 10,920 family medicine doctors, 7,150 general internal medicine physicians, 2,100 OB-GYNs, 3,130 general pediatricians, and 5,630 psychiatrists legally practicing in California.


Sources 

American Diabetes Association

American Academy of Family Physicians

Statista

Healthline

WebMD

eHealth

Penn Medicine

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Blue Cross Blue Shield

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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.

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