When you apply for UPMC for Kids, you will pick a primary care provider (PCP) for your child. This can be a pediatrician, a family practitioner, or an internal medicine doctor.
Your child’s PCP can provide routine care and see your child when he or she is sick. The PCP will help coordinate the care your child needs.
The PCP can help decide when your child needs to see a specialist. You do not need a referral from the PCP for your child to see a specialist who participates in the UPMC for Kids network.
Except in an emergency, your child must use a participating UPMC for Kids provider. This includes physicians, hospitals, dentists, pharmacies, and other providers.
If your child has an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room. If you aren’t sure it is an emergency and waiting will not harm your child’s health, contact your child’s PCP first.