Choosing and Changing Your Primary Care Provider (PCP) with L.A. Care
Your primary care provider (PCP) is a vital partner in your healthcare journey with L.A. Care Health Plan. Selecting a PCP allows for continuous, personalized care, and understanding your options for changing PCPs is essential for maintaining optimal health. This article provides a comprehensive guide to choosing, changing, and understanding your PCP within the L.A. Care network.
What is a Primary Care Provider?
A primary care provider (PCP) is a licensed healthcare professional you visit for most of your healthcare needs. They provide preventive care, manage existing conditions, and refer you to specialists when necessary. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose from several types of PCPs, including:
- General Practitioner
- OB/GYN
- Family Practitioner
- Internist
- Pediatrician
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Physician Assistant (PA)
- Certified Nurse Midwife
If you select an NP, PA, or certified nurse midwife, a doctor may oversee your care.
Choosing a PCP
You have the right to choose a PCP who best suits your healthcare needs. It’s best to select a PCP within 30 days of enrolling in L.A. Care. When making your choice, ensure the provider is within the L.A. Care network and is accepting novel patients. You can utilize the L.A. Care online Provider Directory to find a participating PCP.
Changing Your PCP
You have the flexibility to change your PCP at any time. Your new choice will become effective on the first day of the following month. You can change your PCP by:
- Calling L.A. Care Member Services at 1-888-839-9909 (TTY: 711).
- Logging onto the L.A. Care Connect member portal.
When L.A. Care May Change Your PCP
In certain situations, L.A. Care may necessitate to change your PCP. This can occur if:
- The PCP is not accepting new patients.
- The PCP has left the L.A. Care network.
- The PCP does not provide care appropriate for your age.
- There are unresolved quality concerns with the PCP.
L.A. Care may also request a change if you have difficulty communicating with your PCP or frequently miss appointments.
Notification of PCP Changes
If L.A. Care initiates a PCP change, you will receive written notification. If your PCP changes, you will receive a letter and a new L.A. Care member ID card in the mail with your new PCP’s information. If you have questions about your new ID card, contact L.A. Care Member Services at 1-888-839-9909 (TTY: 711).
Two-Factor Authentication for Member Portal Access
To enhance security, L.A. Care Health Plan has implemented Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for all members accessing the Member Portal. You will now be required to enter an email address to receive a verification code when creating an account or logging in. Learn more about L.A. Care Connect and security enhancements.