Nothing is more important than our health, and yet we often don’t seek medical care unless a problem is going on. But what if we simply had a doctor that we turned to regularly for checkups and preventive care? With diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure being so commonplace, and not often diagnosed or properly treated, it’s now more important than ever before that people of all ages and medical histories have a primary doctor that they turn to even when they are feeling their best. Here’s why.
Your primary doctor is going to be the first medical professional you’ll turn to for care, but they can also do so much more. They will also be the ones to coordinate your care and communicate with other specialists and doctors you may be working with, including nutritionists and psychiatrists, to make sure you are getting the most comprehensive care and effective treatments you need. They can also recommend specialists, order diagnostic tests and screenings, and recommend certain medications or supplements.
Whether you are looking to shed pounds, work out more regularly, or improve your sleep, your primary doctor can be a wellspring of information to help improve your health and wellbeing. A doctor can provide you with helpful and sage advice regarding everything from quitting smoking and which exercises are safe for you (based on your medical history) to the best diet for you and sleep habits to adopt.
Another reason to turn to a primary doctor is that they are able to treat a variety of injuries, illnesses, and diseases. A primary doctor can also diagnose and treat acute and chronic health problems. From the flu and back pain to a sore throat and digestive problems, your primary doctor can treat most everyday health concerns.
When you have an established doctor you don’t have to worry about who to turn to when a health problem arises. Better yet, when you have a primary doctor that you turn to regularly for care, you also know that you’ll be able to get a same-day or next-day appointment if the issue is urgent or requires more immediate attention. This also helps you avoid those costly visits to impersonal urgent care or the ER.
Your doctor is focused on preventive care, which also means providing patients with the proper screenings to detect or safeguard against certain disorders and diseases. Screenings may be recommended to check blood glucose, cholesterol, or blood pressure, particularly if you’re at risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension. Older adults may also benefit from mammograms, colonoscopies (to check for colon cancer), and prostate exams. Your doctor will know exactly what health screenings are necessary for you based on your risk factors, age, and medical history.
If you don’t currently have a primary doctor, it’s probably time you found one. After all, having a primary doctor can certainly take the guesswork out of where to find treatment and care when you’re not feeling your best. It’s also the best way to invest in your health and prevent health problems from happening in the first place.
