Primary Care

Lima Memorial Physicians is northwest Ohio’s primary care network, with 11 locations serving patients across Allen, Auglaize, Hardin, Logan, Mercer, Putnam, Shelby and Van Wert counties. Our team of family physicians, internists and advanced practice providers delivers preventive care, chronic disease management, acute care and coordinated access to Lima Memorial’s full network of specialty services, all close to home.

Same-day and walk-in appointments are available at select locations, and your walk-in copay is the same as a regular office visit.

When to Use Primary Care

Your primary care provider is your first point of contact for most health needs. Use primary care for:

Annual wellness visits and preventive screenings
Management of ongoing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol
Minor illnesses, infections and injuries
New symptoms that are not an emergency
Referrals and coordinated care with Lima Memorial specialists
Pediatric and adolescent care
Geriatric care and care navigation

Primary Care vs. Walk-In vs. Emergency Care

Not sure where to go? Here is a general guide:

Primary care: scheduled appointments with your established provider for wellness, chronic conditions and non-urgent concerns.

Walk-in care: no appointment needed for minor illnesses and injuries when your regular provider is unavailable. Walk-in copay is the same as a physician office visit.

Emergency center: chest pain, stroke symptoms, difficulty breathing, severe injury or any life-threatening condition. Call 911 for emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see a Lima Memorial specialist?

Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan. Your primary care provider can help coordinate referrals to Lima Memorial specialists when needed. Check with your insurance provider or the specialist's office to confirm requirements before scheduling.

Can I get a same-day appointment?

Same-day appointments are available at Lima Memorial Physicians' locations. Walk-in care is also available at select locations with no appointment needed. Call your nearest location or use online self-scheduling to check availability.

What is the difference between primary care and walk-in care?

Primary care is an ongoing relationship with a provider who knows your health history and manages your overall care. Walk-in care is designed for minor illnesses and injuries when you need to be seen quickly and cannot wait for a scheduled appointment. Both options are available through Lima Memorial Physicians, and your walk-in copay is the same as a regular office visit.

What ages do Lima Memorial Physicians see?

Lima Memorial Physicians provides care for patients of all ages, from pediatrics through geriatrics. Whether you are establishing care for a child, managing adult health concerns or navigating care as an older adult, our providers offer comprehensive, age-appropriate primary care.

What is the difference between an MD, DO, CNP and PA-C?

MD (Doctor of Medicine) and DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) are both fully licensed physicians. A CNP (Certified Nurse Practitioner) or PA-C (Physician Assistant, Certified) is an advanced practice provider who works alongside physicians to deliver primary care. All providers at Lima Memorial Physicians meet the training and licensure requirements for their respective credentials.

How do I establish care with a Lima Memorial primary care provider?

Use the Find a Doctor tool on limamemorial.org to search by location or provider name, then call the office directly or use self-scheduling to book your first appointment. No referral is needed to establish primary care.

Find a Primary Care Physician Near You

Lima Memorial Physicians offers primary care close to home across northwest Ohio. Find a provider, request a same-day appointment or walk in when you need care quickly.