A primary care provider (PCP) is a doctor or nurse practitioner who specializes in internal medicine, family medicine, or adolescent medicine. Pediatricians often serve as PCPs for children and teenagers, but as an MIT student, you will not see a pediatrician at MIT Medical, even if you are under 18 years old.
What does a PCP do?
The PCP you choose will be your personal clinician—the one you’ll visit for most of your care and with whom you’ll discuss your health concerns and questions. You’ll make an appointment to see your PCP if you need a physical exam or if you have a non-emergency problem, like a cough that isn’t getting better or a minor injury. PCPs can also help you manage chronic conditions, like seasonal allergies.
Who are the PCPs at MIT Medical?
Your PCP may be a doctor or a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who have completed a master’s degree. They have also passed a licensing exam that allows them to perform as a PCP. They can diagnose illnesses or injuries, order laboratory tests, develop treatment plans, and write prescriptions. Many nurse practitioners at MIT Medical have additional certifications in medical specialty areas or have other special skills in areas such as nutrition and women’s health.
Communicating with your PCP
If you need to communicate with your PCP outside of a regular office visit, you may:
- Call your PCP’s office directly. This is the best communication method to use if you have an urgent need. You’ll speak with one of our triage nurses and, if necessary, your PCP will call you back.
- Send a secure message through HealthELife, MIT Medical’s online patient portal. To sign up, just visit any front desk staff member at MIT Medical.
