You’ve heard about Primary Care Doctors or a PCP, but what exactly do these doctors do? Are there reasons you need a Primary Care Physician?
Having a dedicated Primary Care Physician has a number of benefits, both health-wise and financially. Exactly what are the reasons you need a primary care physician? Let’s dive into the reasons (and benefits!) of having a PCP.
Establish baseline information about your health
The first time you meet with your Primary Care doctor, they will gather baseline information about your health including blood pressure, weight, and a CBC (Complete Blood Count) panel which can screen for a variety of conditions.
Even if you aren’t having any current health problems, it is important to have this baseline health information on record. If you have a health issue in the future, your PCP will be able to refer to your baseline information and make customized, more informed decisions.
Address your health concerns
Your primary care doctor is there to answer any questions you have about your health. Everyone has different health issues that come up during their lifetimes and Doctor Google can cause unnecessary panic. Having a PCP means you have a reliable source to discuss your health worries with.
Whether you have knee pain that is preventing you from hiking with your kids or headaches that are impacting your day-to-day life, a PCP has the knowledge to address your health concerns and help you live a more full and active life.
Keep on top of recommended screenings/vaccines
Do you know how often you need a mammogram? Flu shot? Colonoscopy? Having a primary care doctor (and meeting with him/her regularly) will help you stay on top of all of the recommended vaccines and screenings you need to stay healthy. Preventative health screenings detect problems early, when they are easier to treat and have a higher success rate.
Get referrals to specialists
If at any point in your health journey you need to see a specialist, your primary care physician will have access to the best specialists for your needs. Many insurance companies require referrals for specialty physicians and your PCP will be able to help with that.
Comprehensive oversight of your health
Think of your primary care doctor like a general contractor. Not only will a PCP gather your health baseline and health history, they will also manage and oversee your interactions with specialists and other doctors. Having a doctor with a comprehensive view of your health will ensure that you are getting the best treatment possible.
Save Money
When you partner with a Primary Care Physician and see them regularly, you will save money. How? Preventative screenings and vaccinations will keep you healthier, meaning you’ll spend less on future medical issues. Your PCP will also know when you need to see a specialist and when it isn’t necessary. Additionally, some companies offer health insurance premium deductions if you provide proof of a yearly PCP visit (they know it saves money too!).
Stay Healthier
A recent study showed that patients who see a primary care doctor require less visits to urgent care and the emergency room? Why? For all of the reasons listed above! Your PCP can help you clear up any health issues, stay on top of your health, and provide preventative care that will help you live a healthier and longer life.
Have a health advocate
Everyone needs a health advocate, and a good primary care physician will be just that. With their knowledge of your health background and the relationship you’ve built, your PCP will have the ability to advocate for your health in all the ways you need it.
Why do I need a Primary Care Physician?
There are many reasons you need a primary care physician, and the benefits of having a PCP include saving money, living a healthier life and having an advocate in your corner. Primary Healthcare is committed to providing you superior health care with any one of our Primary Care Physicians.
Our goal is to give you an exceptional health care experience from the beginning to the end of your visit, with convenient scheduling, friendly staff, helpful and caring doctors, on-site prescription refills, Telehealth visit options and the follow-up care you need to live your best life.
If you are looking for a primary care physician in Utah, give Primary Healthcare a call today to schedule an appointment at (801) 758-8735.