A Trusted Professional
In life, you only get one body. Time and basic wear and tear can change how it functions, and even the most vigilant of healthy people can benefit from an expert’s guidance to keep things running as they should. Having a trusted physician that you see regularly is a lifeline to better health. With technology’s advancements in the medical field, it’s easier than ever to prioritize your health with a primary care provider.
One of the greatest benefits of having a primary care provider is that they actually know you and your health history. You are able to speak candidly about your health with someone and have them not only listen but provide you with educated, helpful feedback that is in your best interest.
“You develop a higher level of comfort as you establish care and cultivate a relationship with a primary care provider. When you’re comfortable talking to someone, you’re more apt to share your health care needs and concerns about what’s going on. Most people don’t want to open up to a stranger,” explained K.C. Hill, chief operating officer of Quality Healthcare Development and quality director for Liberty Doctors.
Patients are empowered to make educated decisions about preventive measures, health conditions and treatment options when they have guidance from a primary care physician who knows their health history.
The Role of Primary Care Providers
In addition to listening to concerns, PCPs help their patients stay on track with preventive care. Early detection of disease can save lives, and, as you age, PCPs can advise or even provide screenings and vaccinations relevant to your age and health. Not only is early detection crucial for health issues, but it also makes a big impact on cost savings.
“Individuals who see a primary care provider regularly tend to spend less on health care. Potential prevention and early detection of diseases results in avoiding hospital stays and lengthy medical treatments,” Hill said.
For patients with chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes or arthritis, a PCP will help manage those conditions and prioritize quality of life.
The primary care provider analyzes health issues and can help rectify them, but, when a specialist’s expertise is needed, a PCP will make referrals and help the process run smoothly.
Hill likened primary care providers to quarterbacks of health care; they are constantly helping with the continuity of care. By taking a holistic approach, they see the patient as a whole, rather than focusing on one system of the body – as a specialist does. A PCP knows patients and their health history and can advise on details such as adverse effects of medications when a specialist is involved.
How Telehealth Fits In
Checking in with your PCP is now easier than ever. The demand for telehealth was spurred during the COVID era and changed the landscape of medical appointments, and now there are many options to receive care even if you can’t get to your PCP in person.
“Technology is great and has made wonderful advancements within the health care industry,” said Heather Dawson, M.D., of Liberty Doctors. “We can meet patients wherever they are – in inclement weather or if they have transportation issues. In many cases, it’s better to have the appointment than have to reschedule.”
Patients can speak with doctors over the phone, have a video call or in some cases simply check boxes on an online form. PCPs can use remote monitoring to check in with their patients who use wearable monitors such as glucometers, heart monitors and blood pressure cuffs. By monitoring trends and changes, PCPs can check in with their patients and help fix issues if they notice anything that requires attention.
While the use of telehealth makes sense for needs such as a quick prescription refill or a follow-up on labs with no complications, this method of care is not always the answer.
“You can never replace the human touch with technology. Seeing your primary care provider in person is important and cultivates the relationship,” Dr. Dawson said. “But it’s different doing telehealth when the doctor doesn’t really know you. They need to know your health history, what medications you’re on – they
