Posted On: July 26, 2024
In some ways, access to healthcare appears easier than ever with the expansion of retail walk-in clinics, virtual doctor appointments and urgent care clinics. However, if you want to stay healthy, having a primary care physician is crucial. Research has shown that adults with primary care physicians are more likely to receive quality care, including services such as routine screenings and help managing chronic (long-term) conditions.
While walk-in and urgent care are great options when you need care and your doctor isn’t available, establishing a relationship with a primary care doctor before you need care can make a big difference in your long-term health. Primary care providers (PCP) practice general medicine and can be M.D.s, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants. PCPs include family medicine for patients of all ages, internal medicine doctors for adult patients, and pediatricians for babies and children.
Why choose a PCP:
- Your PCP knows you better than any other doctor. By having knowledge of your medical history, family health history, your risk factors, lifestyle habits, medications, preferences, and health goals, your PCP can detect a small change in your health before it becomes something bigger.
- A PCP can offer care throughout all stages of your health. Consider this medical professional as your own personal trainer who can help you stay up to date on routine screenings, manage risks of developing a chronic disease, urge lifestyle changes, and address any medication side effects.
- PCPs can prevent you from getting sick. Regular visits for preventive care and routine screenings may help detect and prevent issues such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Your PCP can keep track of these tests, as well as immunizations and vaccinations.
- A PCP can refer you to a qualified specialist. Should you have a health issue that requires specialized treatment, your PCP can be a trusted guide in connecting you with a larger network of doctors, specialists, as well as assisting in coordinating your care among multiple specialists.
Establishing and building a relationship with a PCP can help keep you healthier in the long run. Receiving healthcare from someone who is familiar with you and your medical history can lead to improved care. If you haven’t chosen a PCP, take the time to find the best provider for you and schedule a preventive check-up. It’s a relationship that’s worth the investment.