A method for controlling diversity receivers in a wireless communication device includes the steps of: determining if the wireless communication device is experiencing poor coverage (220), using a first receiver and a second receiver for diversity (230) if the wireless communication device is experiencing poor coverage, and using the second receiver for scanning (240) if the wireless communication device is not experiencing poor coverage. Thus, diversity can be used when needed to improve reception. Both receivers, however, can be used in a non-diversity mode to reduce current drain or to speed up channel acquisition when coverage is not poor.