In February, the publication surveyed 2,000 adults about their experiences and preferences with primary care. Seventy-three percent of respondents said their last annual physical with a primary care provider was in either 2023 or 2024.
Five more key findings:
- The findings indicate patients value the relationship they have with their primary care provider. Among those who had a recent annual physical, 81% said they went to a provider they had visited before; 96% said they feel comfortable with their PCP; and 95% said they trust their PCP.
- About 12% of respondents said they were not sure when they would go in for their next annual physical. The most commonly reported reasons for missing routine visits were: Can’t fit an appointment into their schedule or keep forgetting (32%); don’t like going to the doctor (25%); haven’t found a PCP they like (12%).
- When choosing a physician, nearly 30% of U.S. adults said they are looking for someone who has experience and expertise in a specific area of care, and 24% said they are looking for physicians with positive reviews from other patients.
- Sixty-six percent of respondents said they would be more likely to make an appointment if masks are required, and 75% saying they’d be more likely to make an appointment in an office where COVID-19 vaccines are offered.
- When asked about features of online patient portals, nearly 60% of respondents said they want the ability to review test results. Forty-seven percent said they would prioritize being able to request medication refills. An equal proportion said scheduling appointments is a priority.
