Primary care practitioners fill an important role in the healthcare system, acting as the first line of contact for virtually all medical concerns. Studies have consistently shown that patients live longer when they have a dedicated primary care physician, with better overall health than those who do not. Anyone with a primary care physician is familiar with the vast wealth of knowledge that their doctor has, with the ability to diagnose a long list of symptoms and conditions without looking anything up. Primary care physicians also offer preventative care, which focuses on the prevention of diseases and conditions that can be reversed with early detection.

While the two have much in common, they are very distinct. A family medicine physician cares for the whole family, whereas a primary care physician cares primarily for adults. Just like how a pediatrician specializes in caring for children, a primary care provider specializes in treating conditions that commonly affect adults.

Primary care practitioners can treat a vast variety of medical conditions. It is important to have a long-term relationship with your primary care provider, as they help you maintain overall health and recover when you are sick. Because they cover all types of everyday health concerns, primary care providers are also called general practitioners. At Coastal Primary Care & Wellness, our Primary Care providers offer the following tests and services:

– Anemia
– Bite/Scratches/Stings
– High Blood Pressure
– High Cholesterol
– Tooth Pain
– Diabetes
– Abdominal Pain
– Flu
– Chest Congestion
– Asthma/COPD
– Ear infections
– Sinus/Allergies
– Cough/cold/URI
– Sore Throat
– Anxiety/depression
– Thyroid conditions
– Hormone imbalance
– Obesity
– Abdominal pain
– Impotence
– UTI/STI
– Period irregularities
– Joint pain
– Fatigue

There are many benefits of primary care. Primary care providers can:

– Help you navigate the healthcare system and coordinate communication with other healthcare professionals
– Provide individualized care where they understand your unique medical history
– Provide chronic disease management, including the monitoring of chronic conditions and preventing unnecessary complications from arising
– Provide preventive services, including regularly scheduled visits and routine screenings, exams, and vaccinations
– Provide continuity of care, overseeing the entire healthcare picture of an individual

Choosing a primary care practitioner that is right for you can be a challenge, and it often takes a lot of phone calls and meet and greets with provider and their staff. Some key questions to consider when choosing a primary care provider are:

– Do they accept your health insurance?
– Who do your friends and family refer?
– If you are moving to a new area, who does your current physician refer?
– Do they answer all of your questions in a way you can easily understand?
– Do they take their time with you? Or did you feel rushed?

These are just a few questions to help you on your way to finding a great primary care physician.

If you or someone you love is looking for a top-rated primary care physician, come to Coastal Primary Care & Wellness today! Our kind and compassionate professionals are dedicating to providing a higher level of care for every patient. Call us today to book an appointment! We look forward to serving you!