The status of the physician’s practice is noted on the doctor’s profile, as either “accepting new patients” or “not accepting new patients.” Some physicians will not display this information, if they work in an environment where patients are not seen by appointment, such as emergency medicine or hospitalist physicians, who provide care within a hospital. Even if a doctor’s status shows as “accepting new patients,” it is a good idea to verify that the status is current; that the office does accept your particular health plan; and whether you will need a referral before being seen by this physician for care.

For doctors who are part of medical groups affiliated with Sutter’s medical foundations, there will be a list of “accepted health plans” viewable from the doctor’s profile. For other physicians in the directory, you will need to contact the doctor’s office directly, or contact your health plan, to determine if your particular type of plan is accepted. This information can change rapidly, so it is always a good idea to confirm whether your health plan – including the particular plan name and type – is currently accepted.

Each physician profile contains the office telephone number for the practice. Calling the office is a good way to schedule your appointment and exchange needed information with the doctor’s office.

For many physicians, including most primary care physicians you will see an option on the profile to Request an Appointment or Book an Appointment online. You can use this feature to provide needed information and, in some cases, select a specific appointment time. You will likely be contacted by the physician’s office before your appointment to confirm details of your visit, your health plan coverage, and other important information.

Each physician profile in our Find a Doctor directory will indicate if the doctor, or the office staff, speaks a language in addition to English. There may also be an indication of the proficiency in that language, using these categories below.

 Excellent

Speaks proficiently, equivalent to that of an educated speaker, and is skilled at incorporating appropriate medical terminology and concepts into communication. Has complete fluency in the language such that speech in all levels is fully accepted by educated native speakers in all its features, including breadth of vocabulary and idioms, colloquialisms, and pertinent cultural references. 

 Very Good

Able to use the language fluently and accurately on all levels related to work needs in a healthcare setting. Can understand and participate in any conversation within the range of his/her experience with a high degree of fluency and precision of vocabulary. Unaffected by rate of speech. Language ability only rarely hinders him/her in performing any task requiring language; yet, the individual would seldom be perceived as a native.

 Good

Able to speak the language with sufficient accuracy and vocabulary to have effective formal and informal conversations on most familiar topics. Although cultural references, proverbs and the implications of nuances and idiom may not be fully understood, the individual can easily participate in the conversation. May have some difficulty communicating necessary health concepts.

 Fair

Meets basic conversational needs. Able to understand and respond to simple questions. Can handle casual conversation about work, school and family. Has difficulty with vocabulary and grammar. The individual can get the gist of most everyday conversations, but has difficulty communicating about healthcare concepts.