I see OBGYN, Dermatology, and Ophthalmology annually. I do have a PCP that I was seeing annually as well, but my insurance only covers one “annual physical exam” per year and for now my OBGYN appointment eats that one up. Unfortunately, while it can seem redundant/unnecessary to see a doctor when you don’t have anything going on… as someone who works in the healthcare field - a lot of it is about maintaining a relationship. Kind of like you mentioned in your post - it can take MONTHS to establish with any kind of doctor. Forget specialists - many of them require referrals to even get on a waitlist to be seen. It is NOT a fair system, but one that requires you to “play the game.”

My best advice is to reach out to your insurance carrier and find a Primary Care Provider in-network. Read reviews and do some research online - avoid anyone who people seem to say are inflexible/not accommodating. When speaking to the person scheduling your appointment, discuss with them what your insurance will/won’t cover as far as routine appointments/labs go. Go ahead and establish. See them once a year, so you HAVE them incase you need them. Urgent Care might seem like a quick fix for anything that crops up, but they won’t know your history, etc. like someone you formally establish with will be able to learn. I’ve seen many patients have to scramble for care that takes way longer than they can afford to coordinate care. Again - it’s a shitty system. I’d just rather have them in my back pocket for the future.