Can Residents Continue to See Their Personal Physicians in Assisted Living?

Can Residents Continue to See Their Personal Physicians in Assisted Living?

Moving to an assisted living community is a big transition, and one of the most common concerns families have is whether their loved one can continue seeing their own doctor. The short answer? Yes—usually. However, there are a few important factors to consider.

1. Facility Policies on Outside Physicians

Most assisted living communities allow residents to keep their current healthcare providers, as long as the doctor accepts their insurance and can coordinate care with the facility’s medical staff. However, some communities have on-site physicians and may encourage (or require) residents to use them for convenience.

2. Transportation & Accessibility

If your loved one’s doctor isn’t within walking distance, transportation becomes a crucial factor. Some assisted living facilities offer shuttle services to local medical offices, while others may require families to arrange their own transportation.

3. Insurance & Coverage Considerations

Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans all have different rules about in-network and out-of-network providers. Before committing to a facility, confirm that your loved one’s physician visits will still be covered under their plan.

4. On-Site Healthcare Options

Many assisted living communities provide in-house medical care, including wellness checks, therapy services, and even specialists. If your loved one has a complex medical condition, it’s worth exploring whether the facility’s medical team can meet their needs—or if continuing with their personal physician is the best option.

5. Communication & Coordination

If a resident continues seeing an outside doctor, the assisted living facility should have a system in place for coordinating care. This ensures that medications, treatments, and any changes in health are properly communicated to caregivers and nursing staff.

Final Thoughts

Keeping a personal physician can offer comfort and continuity, but it’s important to verify the logistics before making a decision. Speak with both the assisted living facility and your loved one’s doctor to ensure seamless care.

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