7 Reasons Why You Need a Primary Care Physician

Many people would be surprised to know how many treatment options a primary care physician can really offer. When facing a health issue, it is common to want to go straight to a specialist. For example, if you are someone who experiences acid reflux, you may seek out a gastroenterologist. However, a primary care physician often times can give targeted treatments that are appropriate for your age, gender, and any existing conditions.

Your primary care can see the full story. Many specialists may not be in communication with each other or know your whole range of health care needs. In an age where medicine is becoming increasingly specialized, in some cases, patient care is becoming fragmented and uncoordinated. While specialists are important, a primary care physician can bridge the gap between them and allow you to have a fuller, healthier life. Here are some of the reasons why primary care physicians are so important:

1. A central point of contact: A primary care physician can coordinate all of the patient care into one central location. They can access all of the information and coordinate for a wide spectrum of health services, even including preventative care.
2. Better preventative care: If you only go to the doctor when you are sick, then it is likely that regularly scheduled preventative care can decrease that. Going even just once a year for an annual check-up allows them to educate you on your health and prevent chronic illnesses down the line.
3. Continuity of care: Continued and consistent care can increase the likelihood that you’ll receive a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your primary care can track your health over time and gain valuable information over time that can be helpful in making decisions about your health.
4. Lower cost of health care over time: Regularly going to a doctor when you are healthy may seem like a waste of your time and more. But by doing so, you can reduce costs in your healthcare overall. Regular screenings and preventative measures can help your doctor catch things early and prevent needing serious medical attention.
5. Decrease your hospital and ER visits: This one goes hand in hand with reason #4. Studies have shown that patients who regularly visit their primary care physicians have fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits. Ignoring symptoms or only visiting a doctor when the case is severe can lead to there being more severe cases. Ignoring your body or any of the signs can be dangerous. Either of these options is expensive and extreme. A simple visit to your primary care physician can help to prevent stressful situations and large bills to follow.
6. Better management of chronic diseases: Many chronic diseases like diabetes or arthritis need to be monitored. They can be monitored at home, but that can be difficult. A primary care physician can help you stay organized and aware of how your chronic disease is affecting your body.
7. Referrals to other medical specialists: Having a primary care physician doesn’t eliminate the need for specialists! You can get referred to the exact specialist you need and they will have all the information you need. Your primary care can make sure that the treatment works with any other treatments you have and even provide helpful recommendations for the specialists.

Speak to One Today!

At Hillandale Primary Care, we are here to help you live your healthiest and fullest life. We help provide a comprehensive medical exam and health plan that incorporates every aspect of your life. If you have any questions or would like to speak to one of our physicians, call or click today!