By Dr. Kang Lin Tsai
Urgent care centers and clinics are easy to find these days when minor medical problems pop up. While these clinics can be helpful, especially during cold and flu season, having a primary care doctor is still one of the most important parts of staying healthy. A primary care physician does more than just treat you when you’re sick. They are your partner in staying healthy, preventing illness and guiding you through the healthcare system.
Here are several reasons why you should have a primary care doctor:
- One of the best things about having a regular primary care physician is the trust and long-term relationship that you build together. They keep track of your health history, including past illnesses, surgeries, medications and family health conditions. This knowledge helps them make accurate diagnoses and avoid medicine that could cause problems. People often are more comfortable sharing personal information and following advice from a doctor they trust.
- Primary care doctors are essential for preventing health problems. Regular checkups, screenings and vaccinations help catch the issues early before they become serious. Doctors can spot early signs of long-term conditions like diabetes, heart disease or cancer when they’re easier to treat. They also give advice on healthy habits (like good nutrition and exercise) that can help prevent future health issues.
- Primary care physicians can manage several health conditions at once, knowing how treatments for one condition might affect another. This keeps your care balanced, and it can lead to better health results overall.
- They can refer you to the right specialists when you need one, work with different medical teams and help explain different opinions and treatment options. This is especially important for people with complicated health problems who might need care from multiple providers.
- Getting regular checkups with a primary care doctor can save money over time. In places with more primary care doctors, healthcare costs are lower, and people have better health.
SOME REASONS FOR LOWER COSTS INCLUDE:
- Finding and treating issues early before they become severe
- Fewer emergency-room visits because health problems are managed better
- Avoiding tests and treatments that you don’t really need
- Using specialty care only when necessary
Mental health is another area where primary care doctors can make a big difference. They are often the first to notice mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Primary care physicians can offer early support and connect patients with mental health resources, understanding the strong link between mental and physical health.
PRIMARY CARE DOCTORS ALSO HELP YOU WORK THROUGH THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM. THEY CAN ASSIST WITH:
- Understanding insurance options
- Making informed decisions about treatments
- Getting the medications and medical equipment you need
- Finding community health resources
Overall, primary care physicians are your personal healthcare advocates. Because they know your health history and understand your family and personal backgrounds, they can help you make medical choices that are best for you.
Dr. Kang Lin Tsai practices Family Medicine at Ochsner Medical Center Hancock. Call (228) 220-5200, or visit ochsner.org to learn more.