Most people know they should have a family doctor, but many aren’t fully aware of the importance of having one. If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re one of those people.
Below are a just a few of the many reasons why having a family doctor is one of the best health decisions you can make not only for yourself but also for your loved ones.
Reason #1 A Family Doctor Is Your One-Stop Shop for You Health Maintenance and General Medical Problems.
Considered the most versatile of all types of physicians, family doctors provide comprehensive medical care for patients of all ages. However, this breadth is not only limited to patient populations; it also includes the care family medicine physicians provide.
In addition to doing yearly checkups, a family doctor helps manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis; treats acute medical problems, such as minor injuries and sinus infections; and offers nutritional guidance and medical weight-loss programs. What’s more, a family doctor can carry out minor outpatient procedures, such as circumcisions, draining an abscess, freezing a wart, to name a few.
Reason #2 A Family Doctor Can Connect You with the Right Specialist.
When you need advanced care for a chronic medical condition, a family doctor can help you find a specialist who perfectly fits your needs and preferences.
For instance, if you have heart disease, a family doctor can coordinate your care with a cardiologist. If you’re someone who prefers to avoid aggressive treatment as much as possible, your family doctor can help you find a cardiologist who takes a conservative-first approach to care.
Reason #3 Having a Family Doctor Is Associated with Better Health Outcomes.
A study confirms that coordinated care – especially one that is led by a family doctor who is judicious about referring their patients to specialists – leads to better health outcomes and, ultimately, reduced healthcare costs.
Additionally, because your family doctor has your overall health profile, they are better equipped to determine your risk for certain chronic diseases. Your family doctor can order certain tests and, if they determine that you’re at a high risk, can recommend all the necessary strategies, particularly lifestyle changes, to help you minimize your risk and maintain your quality of life. This also translates to better patient outcomes and healthcare cost savings.
