A primary care provider often is referred to as a PCP, which is a medical doctor that specializes in internal or family medicine. Along with routine medical care, your primary care doctor also helps to identify potential health problems and promote overall wellness. Some insurance companies require that you select a PCP and that you get referrals to specialists from that doctor. Most PCPs are doctors, but nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can also act as primary care providers.