Primary Care Physician (aka your Family Doctor)
Establishing a
relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) is an important step in
maintaining your good health. A
primary care physician is your primary source for
health care treatment and information. A PCP manages your care,
provides treatment for illnesses and injuries, and can also manage
long-term chronic illnesses. Through regular office visits and
screenings, the PCP can determine if any health problems arise and refer
you for further testing, or to a specialist, if needed.
In addition, there are screenings all adults should
have regularly like cholesterol check, blood pressure, cancer
prevention, etc. A relationship should be established with your physician before you "need" them. Many doctors do not have appointments available for
several months unless you are an established patient.
Once you
have a PCP, that physician becomes familiar with your medical history
and that of your family members. Not only is this important in emergency
situations, but you may need earlier or more frequent screenings for
health problems and your PCP can advise you.
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