How to Find a Doctor That Takes Medicare
Finding a doctor who takes Medicare is usually simpler than people expect — most doctors do. The harder part is confirming they're the right fit and actually taking new patients. Here's a straightforward approach.
1. Start with your specialty and city
Use Find a Doctor Near Me to search your city, or browse by specialty if you know what kind of care you need. Every listing comes from CMS's Medicare enrollment records, not user submissions, so the underlying fact — "this clinician is enrolled in Medicare" — is accurate as of our last data refresh.
2. Check the assignment badge
Look for "Accepts assignment" on a provider's card — it means they'll take Medicare's approved amount as full payment, so you only owe your deductible and coinsurance. "May accept assignment" means it can vary by visit; ask when you call. Read the full explanation →
3. If you have Medicare Advantage, check your plan's network first
This directory reflects Original Medicare enrollment. If you're on a Medicare Advantage plan, a provider being listed here doesn't guarantee they're in your plan's network — check your plan's own directory, then confirm with the office. See why this matters →
4. Call before you book
A few quick questions before your first visit save headaches later:
- "Are you currently accepting new Medicare patients?"
- "Do you accept Medicare assignment?"
- "Are you in-network for [your Medicare Advantage plan], if I have one?"
- "What should I bring to my first visit — Medicare card, ID, referral if needed?"
We can't promise a listed provider is taking new patients — CMS enrollment data doesn't track that day to day. Always confirm by phone before you book.
5. Something wrong with a listing?
Use the feedback button at the bottom of any page to flag a wrong phone number or closed office — reports go into a reviewed queue and trigger a re-check against CMS data.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a doctor is really enrolled in Medicare?
Every provider on this site is pulled from CMS's own enrollment records. You can also ask the office directly — "Are you enrolled in Medicare, and do you accept assignment?" is a fair, direct question any legitimate office will answer.
What should I ask when I call?
Confirm they're accepting new Medicare patients, whether they accept assignment, whether they're in your Medicare Advantage plan's network (if you have one), and how soon they can see you.
What if the phone number on a listing is wrong?
Use the feedback button at the bottom of the page to report it — we re-check the listing against CMS data. In the meantime, try searching the provider's name and city directly, or ask a nearby listed provider's office if they can point you to the right number.
← All guides · Find a doctor near you →
Source: CMS Doctors and Clinicians National Downloadable File; Medicare.gov general guidance on choosing a provider. This is directory and program information, not medical or insurance advice. Last reviewed August 2026.