The Value of Primary Care

2 minute read

Many people only think about going to see their doctor when they get sick or injured. However, even the healthiest adults need routine health care.

Primary care is meant to manage a person’s day-to-day health needs. A primary care provider can help them stay healthy by being the first to treat any health concerns. The visit can incorporate many kinds of services including preventative care and screenings, acute care diagnosis and treatment, and chronic condition care.

Primary care offers several benefits including:

• Addressing a wide range of health problems. The provider can handle various health care needs such as discussing symptoms, medications, and vaccinations all in one appointment.
• Specialist referral. Certain health conditions may require the doctor to provide a referral for specialist care.
• Managing existing health conditions. Routine care can help individuals manage chronic diseases including diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high cholesterol.
• Detecting problems early. Regular exams and screens can help identify risk factors or spot health issues before they become more serious.
• Fostering doctor-patient relationship. Individuals should find a doctor whom they trust and can talk easily with. The doctor will be their partner on their ongoing health journey.
• Lower health care costs. Visiting a primary care provider once a year for a checkup can help keep a person’s health on the right track and reduce their overall health costs.

Employers can maximize their health care investment by educating employees about the importance of primary care and preventable health conditions. Ultimately, it can provide the benefit of saving lives and improving the quality of their health for years to come.

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