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Why is Primary Care Important?

The need for medical care is a part of everyone’s life, and it starts—or should start—with a primary care physician. A primary care doctor is much more than just the person you go to when you have a cold. They serve a host of important functions that can keep you healthy.

Annual Physicals

Annual physicals are important in detecting medical issues that need to be addressed. A primary care physician is the best person to do your annual physical because they know your medical history. In an annual physical, your doctor will check your vital signs, including your blood pressure, do a series of blood tests based on your age and history, and review your family medical history. They may also perform routine heart and lung tests.

An annual physical is also a chance for you to discuss any medical concerns that you may have or to ask questions about medications that you take or other issues.

Care for Common Illnesses

Your primary care provider is also your go to when you have any common illnesses such as a cold, the flu, a stomach virus, and many more illnesses. They can offer treatment and medications that are appropriate for you based on your medical history and any medical conditions that you may have. This is very important because certain medications or treatment may not be right for you if they can affect current conditions that you have or interfere with medications that you already take.

Preventive Health Care

Preventive health care can help you to avoid serious illnesses. Your primary care provider can provide regular screenings for conditions that you are at risk for, offer the most up-to-date vaccinations, and identify when you are at risk for conditions like diabetes or heart disease. They can prescribe medications to prevent certain conditions and offer lifestyle advice to help you avoid certain illnesses.

Care for Chronic Conditions

If you have a chronic condition of any kind, your primary care doctor can help you to manage it. They can regularly monitor the condition for changes or progression to keep you on the right path. They can also modify treatment as necessary in the context of your medical history and other medical conditions or risks that you may have. Additionally, they will be up to date on any new treatments or medications that become available and can educate you on any new information on your condition that is uncovered.

Early Detection

Early detection has a profound impact on the outcome of most diseases. Signs of disease may be detected during your annual physicals through blood tests or other tests, or by symptoms that you express to your primary care doctor.

However, more importantly, because your primary care physician has extensive information about your medical history and status, and your family history, they can regularly screen you for diseases or conditions in which you are at high risk. They can also educate you on signs and symptoms to watch for.

With early detection, you can begin treatment to cure the condition, or to stop or slow its progression. Your primary care provider will coordinate your treatment and recommend lifestyle choices that can help.

Access to Specialists

Sometimes you may need to see a specialist, such as a cardiologist or a gastroenterologist, to evaluate your symptoms or to treat certain conditions. Your primary care physician has direct access to these specialists in your area and can refer you and share your medical history with them so that they can treat you more effectively. The specialists and your primary care doctor will stay in communication so that they are both aware of the treatment and medications you are getting.

Your Partner in Care

Think of your primary care provider as your medical care coordinator and partner. They are the person who knows your medical condition and history best, and they can connect all the moving parts that you need for care and treatment. Whether reading medical tests, managing a chronic condition, or coordinating your treatment with specialists, your primary care provider is your first point of contact.

Choosing a Primary Care Provider

When choosing a primary care provider, you should consider several factors.

  • You need a provider who is in your insurance network. If you don’t have insurance, a provider like Health Service Alliance can help.
  • Talk to family and friends about their providers to get a recommendation.
  • Consider location and how convenient the provider is for you.
  • Choose a doctor who cares for people like you. For example, if you are a senior, you’ll want a doctor who cares for senior patients.
  • Find a primary care practice that allows you to see one doctor, rather than seeing other doctors in their practice or a nurse practitioner. You want to build a relationship with one person.
  • If you have special needs or chronic conditions, ensure that the doctor you choose is able to handle your needs.
  • Choose a doctor who speaks your primary language if possible.

The best way to choose a doctor, however, may be to interview them first. Make sure that they listen to you and acknowledge your needs. Most importantly, do you trust them? It may come down to how well they communicate and how you feel about talking with them. In the end, trust your gut.

In Closing

A primary care provider is critical to receiving proper, comprehensive medical care. Your relationship with them will be invaluable in your health and wellness. Choose a provider that is familiar with patients like you, is a good communicator, and that you trust. You want someone who will be your partner in a healthy future.

Health Service Alliance provides primary care services and can be your health care partner for life. We offer treatment regardless of your ability to pay. Give us a call today to take control of your health and receive the services you deserve.

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