Off Your Parents' Insurance? A Guide to Primary Care for Young Adults Under 40

Are you turning 26 or starting a new job with your own insurance plan? Welcome to another rite of passage to adult life: finding a primary care provider (PCP).

While it may not feel quite as exciting as booking your first solo vacation or getting your first apartment, choosing a PCP is a major step in taking ownership of your health and future.

“Even if you hardly ever get sick, regular visits to a PCP keep you on track with vaccinations, screenings and conversations about mental wellness,” said Kimberly Selwood, D.O., a physician with Inspira Medical Group Primary Care. “These appointments aren’t just for treating illness; they’re opportunities to discuss stress management, sleep patterns, digestive health, sexual and reproductive care or any chronic concerns you may develop over time.”

Establishing a relationship with a provider early on creates a continuity of care that pays dividends as you move through your 20s and 30s.

Finding your first doctor as an adult

Start by looking for in-network primary care physicians or nurse practitioners in your area, and pay attention to whether they offer same-day or virtual visits and extended hours. These flexible options can be a lifesaver when work and life get busy.

Beyond logistics, consider the type of care you want. Some practices specialize in young adult health while others emphasize a holistic approach or integrate behavioral health alongside physical care. Researching a potential provider's background and reading patient reviews can give you a sense of their communication style and areas of expertise.

Convenience is another factor to consider. Things like a location near your home or workplace, online scheduling tools and straightforward billing can all make it easier to keep appointments and stay engaged in your care.

What to expect at your first visit

“At your first appointment, your PCP will ask about your health history and any family conditions that might matter down the road,” said Dr. Selwood. “Be prepared to talk through your current medications or supplements, your sleep and nutrition habits, how often you exercise and any tobacco, alcohol or other substance use.”

This initial visit is your chance to share what’s on your mind—anxiety about starting a new job, questions about birth control or concerns about managing your cholesterol in the years ahead. Feel free to bring a list of questions with you to your appointment. Your doctor is there to answer these questions and help you feel confident in navigating the health care system on your own.

Keeping up with preventive care

Once you’ve found a PCP who feels like the right fit, schedule an annual checkup, even if you feel perfectly healthy. “These yearly check-ins allow your doctor to monitor blood pressure and cholesterol, update vaccinations, screen for mental health concerns and recommend any age- or risk-based tests,” said Dr. Selwood. Simple steps like setting a recurring calendar reminder for your next checkup go a long way toward avoiding larger health hurdles later on.

Adulting starts here

If you’re freshly off your parents’ insurance or simply ready for an adult-focused health partner, Inspira Health makes it easy to get started. We offer next-day appointments, virtual and in-person visits, extended weekday hours and comprehensive support for everything from preventive screenings to chronic condition management.

Schedule your first adult primary care appointment today and step confidently into managing your health.