The Importance of a Primary Care Physician

A question that many people ask year after year – Do I really need a Primary Care Physician? The answer is always YES! Regardless of your age or health, it is important to have a primary care physician who you visit at least once a year. This is the person you call if you are feeling a bit under the weather, your primary care physician is your first contact when handling undiagnosed health concerns and the one who will provide you continued care when medical conditions are diagnosed. They will also offer preventative care, know what your health history is and you will feel comfortable with them discussing any concerns that you may have. If there is a change in your health, they will recognize the signs and come up with a treatment plan. People that have chronic health problems may need to go to other doctors to be treated and your PCP can provide referrals to other health care facilities for you. Having a primary care physician will keep you healthier as you age. There have been proven studies by International Journal of Health Services that people with a primary care physician will live longer and have fewer deaths from cancer, heart disease, or strokes.