Why You Need a Primary Care Physician

What is a primary care doctor?

Just what is a PCP, anyway? It may sound like some buzz word or a new online acronym, but it does a describe the role of a very important person: a primary care physician. A primary care physician is more than just that go-to person you see for annual checkups. He or she is your partner when it comes to managing your overall health.

Taking care of yourself

If you suffer from diabetes or another chronic condition and you don’t have a PCP, you’ve probably felt the frustration of receiving conflicting medical advice from multiple doctors. If too many cooks in the kitchen spoil the broth, one shudders to think what too many doctors do for your health! Regular appointments with your primary care physician can help him or her keep tabs on your health and determine whether or not you need the additional help of a specialist.

Averting a crisis

When you have a PCP, it might often seem like you spend quite a bit of time going to checkups and undergoing lab work. However, before you decide it’s time to start skipping your appointments for a jog in the park, think again. Your doctor is your greatest ally in spotting and treating any new health concerns that may crop up. Because he or she will be familiar with your history, your PCP is much less likely to rely on guesswork than a doctor who doesn’t know you.

Think about it this way: would you rather receive a serious diagnosis from your PCP, who knows you and is invested in your health, or from an overworked ER doctor who can only spare you a couple of minutes?

Spending less time in the ER and hospital – yay!

A visit to the ER usually means long waits, big bills, and, sometimes, a stay in the hospital. By utilizing the preventative care of a PCP, you can avoid all of this. A primary doctor helps you manage your health so small issues don’t become big ones.

When you need a referral

Sometimes situations arise where you need to see a specialist, such as a cardiologist or an ENT. Don’t worry; your primary care doctor has you covered. He or she probably has a large network of specialists and can refer you to whichever type you need.

Innovative Express Care offers a full range of medical care, including primary care. We’ll set you up with a doctor who will help you take charge of your health so you can live your best life.