When you have an acute medical need like sudden flu symptoms, a weird rash, or debilitating back pain, your primary care provider is the first person you call. Unfortunately, for many people without a primary physician, the emergency room or urgent care center is the primary source of care. Finding and using a Falls Family medicine doctor for you and your family can help you avoid the emergency room. Continue reading to learn the benefits of having a family physician.
Family doctors stay with you for life
It is common for family medicine doctors to see their patients over the years. Additionally, because your family doctor has treated you for a long time, you develop a relationship with them. Over time, your provider learns more about you and your family’s history and lifestyle to determine possible health risks. Comfort, trust, and familiarity are beneficial when a health concern arises, or you experience health changes over the years. A family doctor can treat people of all ages, including infants, toddlers, children, teenagers, and adults, and has the skills to address various medical conditions.
They have a better understanding of your history and your family history
A doctor who has treated you and your family members for years keenly understands you and your medical history. As such, they make accurate diagnoses and monitor you closely for any changes or red flags in your screenings. Besides keeping track of your medical history, a family doctor understands what happens in a patient’s home life. For example, if a child’s parents have divorced or have lost their job, the physician can accurately assess the child’s stress anxiety.
Your link to specialty care
Finding a specialist can be challenging, but when you have a family doctor, they can refer you to one. Some of the issues that require specialty care include cancer and heart disease. When you or any other family member develops such conditions, your family physician can make a referral and guide and coordinate your care. Since your doctor knows you, they will refer you to a specialist who fits your needs and personality.
Better management of chronic diseases
Besides performing annual check-ups, your family doctor is also there to help you navigate long-term medical issues like asthma, arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. They may also recommend lifestyle changes to help you manage the condition and improve your overall quality of life. Your family doctor also ensures that you take medications as prescribed and monitors you to ensure the disease is under control. They can also treat acute medical issues like infections and injuries to help you through stressful times and keep you well throughout.
Saves you money
When you have a family doctor, your medical expenses remain minimal. Regular check-ups allow your doctor to detect and treat a disease when it is more manageable. As such, you are less likely to go to the emergency room or need urgent care.
Schedule an appointment with your provider at Rural Health Corporation of Northeastern Pennsylvania for comprehensive family medicine care.
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