Primary Care Specialist

Why is it so important to have a primary care provider?

Primary care providers build long-term relationships with their patients. Your primary care provider knows you, your medical history, and your family history. A long-term relationship with a primary care physician can lower your health costs, better manage your chronic conditions, and decrease the number of ER and hospital visits.

Do I need a primary care doctor if I never get sick?

A key aspect of the service offered by primary care doctors is prevention. Even patients who never get sick should see their primary care doctor once a year for a preventive physical, which includes screening for silent diseases like hypertension and heart disease.

What is the primary care provider’s role in my health?

As your primary care provider, the doctor wears many hats. They coach and direct all aspects of your health care including mental and emotional health. Also within the primary care provider’s role are:

• Coordination of care across all specialties
• Medication management and prescription
• Preventive screening and examination
• Diagnosis and treatment of any condition affecting any system

What kind of doctors provide primary care?

There are three kinds of doctors who provide primary care: pediatricians serve children, internal medicine doctors serve adults, and family medicine doctors serve patients of all ages.

When should I see my primary care doctor?

You should see your doctor if you experience signs or symptoms of a physical, mental, or emotional problem that may affect your health. Additionally, you should schedule a primary care appointment at least once a year for your annual physical. This is an important aspect of your health care and can dramatically reduce your risk of disease and serious complications of disease.

How can I choose a primary care physician?

Most patients find that the most important aspect in their satisfaction with their primary care physician is their compatibility. When you meet a primary care provider for the first time, you get a good sense of their “fit” with you; are they funny, gentle, or straight to the point, and which do you prefer? What is their perspective of primary care in comparison to your own? Do they have experiencing managing and coordinating care for the chronic conditions you have? Does their clinic accept your insurance? These are all important questions to ask when seeking a new primary care provider.