Importance of Primary Care
June 30, 2017 11:10 am
Primary care is often interpreted as a general, loose term when it comes to healthcare. We hear it often, but we don’t always know what it means. What does it really mean? What does a primary care provider do and should you have one of your own?
Whether you see a family physician, an internal medicine specialist, a pediatrician, or a nurse practitioner for your primary care, we can sum it all up by saying this: primary care is the first contact you have with the healthcare system. 
The ultimate goal of a primary care provider is to diagnose and treat common illnesses and health problems before they transition into more serious health issues.
These providers do so by offering preventive services and following chronic medical problems patients may have. When a person experiences sickness and they don’t have a primary care contact as a resource, minor health issues are often ignored and unnecessary, non-emergent visits to the emergency room for issues that don’t require emergency care typically take place. For you and your health, this is not an ideal solution.
Primary care providers often get to know you and your complete medical history. They generally know family medical history trends and can provide recommendations for you on ways to protect your health. Your health can be compared to an automobile, requiring attention and tune-ups over time. In order for the automobile to operate at maximum efficiency, you have to invest the time and resources into the year-to-year maintenance the automobile requires. Our health is no different! By having routine primary care visits with your provider, you are ensuring that your care is continued over your lifetime, allowing you to function at your best. Your primary care provider takes into account your medical history and existing conditions and can put a plan into place, specifically tailored to the needs you have.
Besides providing continuity of care for you, your primary care providers act as your central point of contact. They help to coordinate communications with other healthcare providers and are a key resource when we have questions or concerns. Ultimately, your primary care provider is your go-to for anything and everything healthcare related in your life.
Be sure to schedule your appointment with a primary care provider today! An appointment annually can make a difference in your health over your lifetime.
This post was written by Magnolia Regional Health Center
