Spending the Winter in Florida? How to Set Up Primary Care Before You Need It

For seasonal residents arriving in Florida between October and December, healthcare may not be the first thing on the moving checklist. ClearMedica wants to help you get ahead of it before you settle in and realize you need a prescription refill or a doctor’s visit.

Your regular doctor may still be in your home state. Your medical records may not have been transferred yet. Your prescription may also be waiting at a pharmacy far away. A little planning before you arrive can help you avoid this situation.

Key Takeaways

• Plan where you will fill your regular prescriptions in Florida.
• Check whether your health plan covers routine care in Florida.
• Compare insurance-based primary care with a monthly membership for a five- or six-month stay.
• Check appointment and transportation options before you need them.

Send Your Medical Records Ahead

One of the first things to arrange is transferring your medical records. Ask your current doctor how to send your records to your new Florida primary care provider before you arrive, if possible. Your records may include your medical history, medications, test results, and vaccines. Keeping them ready helps your new provider understand your health and provide the right care.

If you are helping a parent prepare for the winter, you can arrange this before they leave home. It can make the first visit easier and save time if they need care soon after arriving.

Plan Your Prescription Refills

Do not wait until you are almost out of your regular medication to think about refills. Before traveling, ask your pharmacy and prescribing provider about your options for getting eligible prescriptions filled at a pharmacy near your Florida home.

Prescription rules can vary by medication, prescription, pharmacy, and applicable regulations. That is why it is better to check before you travel rather than wait until you need a refill. It is also helpful to keep an updated list of your medications. Include the medication name, dose, and how often you take it. Keep this information with you in case you need to see a new provider.

Check If Your Northern Health Plan Works in Florida

Having health insurance from your home state does not mean all Florida doctors will be covered. It depends on your plan, network, and benefits.

Before leaving home, contact your insurance company and ask whether it covers routine primary care in Florida. You can also ask which local providers are in-network and what you may pay for visits.

Don’t forget your prescriptions. Check if you can use your regular pharmacy in Florida and if your medications are covered. Checking this ahead of time can help you avoid problems when you need your medicines.

Staying for Five or Six Months? Compare Your Options

If you are staying in Florida for five or six months, think about what type of primary care will work best for your stay. If your health insurance works in Florida, an insurance-based practice may be worth considering. Check the provider network, copays, deductibles, and other costs before deciding.

A monthly primary care membership is another option. With this model, you pay a set monthly fee for the primary care services included in your membership.

ClearMedica offers ClearCare, with monthly membership options designed around different levels of primary care services. Depending on the membership level, you may also get additional services.

For a five- or six-month stay, compare the total cost of the membership with the expected costs of using an insurance-based practice. Also think about how often you may need primary care and which services you are likely to use.

Membership plans and insurance plans work differently. A primary care membership is not health insurance and does not replace coverage for larger medical expenses or other healthcare needs. Review the services, costs, and coverage that apply to your situation before choosing an option.

Get Ready for Your Healthcare Needs

A little healthcare planning can make your stay in Florida easier. Before you arrive, keep your medical records and prescription details ready and check your insurance coverage. If you are staying for a few months, plan your primary care.

If you’re a seasonal resident spending the winter in Florida, don’t wait until you need a doctor to find one. Reach out to ClearMedica and get set up with ClearCare before winter begins.

FAQs

Should I transfer my medical records?

Yes. It helps your new provider understand your medical history.

Can I use my insurance from another state?

It depends on your plan. Check with your insurer first.

Where can seasonal residents get primary care?

If you’d like to enroll in ClearCare, contact us today. Primary care is also available in Winter Haven, Lakeland, and Brandon, search “Primary Care Doctor Brandon,” “primary care physicians Lakeland,” or “primary care Winter Haven” to find a ClearMedica location near you.

Is transportation available?

Complimentary transportation may be available to eligible patients.

Our service areas include Brandon, Lakeland, and Winter Haven.