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Having one doctor that you can go to for your various health needs has become essential in this increasingly complex medical world. Patients with a primary care provider (PCP) benefit from higher satisfaction with care, better management of chronic conditions, reduced medical costs, and improved health outcomes. Your Lenox Medical Clinic PCP spends time getting to know you as an individual, creating a familiar setting where you can discuss your health needs without fear.
The role of a primary care provider in your health
A primary care provider not only helps you get better when you are sick, but they also help you to stay healthy, meaning the relationship is long-term. Your primary care provider is your partner, who you share with the responsibility for your physical, mental, and overall well-being. Primary care providers or general practitioners address everyday healthcare concerns. Your PCP can help you address concerns about infections, medicines, immunizations, and chronic conditions. Since your PCP is your first point of contact in the healthcare system and you get to see them regularly, they know much about your current health. They are also uniquely positioned to help you avoid health problems because they understand your medical history, your family’s medical history, treatment preferences, personality, and lifestyle.
What do checkups with a primary care provider involve?
Because the everyday aspect of your history and lifestyle challenges significantly affects your health, your care provider will evaluate those factors and advise you to make better lifestyle choices to prevent disease. For example, your general practitioner can guide your efforts to stop smoking, limit alcohol consumption, manage stress, and eat nutritious foods. They will also ensure your vaccines are current to prevent illnesses like influenza.
Depending on your risk factors, your primary care provider may order screenings to detect problems early when they can be easily treated. Examples of screenings your doctor may recommend include a mammogram for breast cancer or a Pap test to check for cervical cancer. If you are living with a chronic health problem such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or arthritis, your PCP can help you manage them to improve your quality of life. Your primary care provider will also help you easily access a specialist whenever you need one. Examples of specialists include an orthopedic surgeon, a cardiologist, or an oncologist.
Why do I need a primary care provider?
Your primary care provider helps you stay healthy and is often the first to treat health problems that arise or prevent potential conditions. Regular visits with your PCP allow you to establish a relationship, making it easier to talk about sensitive issues. You will notice that the visits become less stressful and more productive over time. Establishing a relationship with your PCP helps you detect and manage various health issues. A PCP is also convenient because you can access various healthcare services within a primary care practice.
They offer screenings and preventative care for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and asthma or acute problems like high fever, cough, and digestive issues.
For all your primary care services, visit your provider at Lenox Medical Clinic.
