The Importance of a Primary Care Physician

When it comes to staying healthy, quality care starts with finding the right physician. And when you choose a primary care provider, you are beginning what may be a lifelong relationship. Thankfully, Parkridge Health System can assist you in finding the perfect medical home. With our network of primary care physicians, it’s easy to find a doctor whose location and hours are right for you and your family.

Why should you see a primary care physician?

A primary care physician is the coach of your healthcare team. Through annual exams and screenings, primary care physicians are able to draw up your game plan for optimal health. Having an established relationship with your physician means that they can more accurately diagnose and treat you when illnesses arise. A primary care physician can be your go-to health advocate and your partner in leading a healthy lifestyle. In addition, a primary care physician will be your guide to the appropriate specialist, should the need arise, working in conjunction to form a complete picture of your health and making sure your treatment is optimized.

Use these tips to help you choose the perfect medical home:

• Get recommendations from your neighbors, coworkers or friends. Ask about the physician’s personality and communication style, how easily you can get an appointment, the office hours, location and atmosphere, and the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff.
• Select a physician in a specialty that meets your needs. Internal medicine physicians treat only adults, while family medicine physicians see patients of all ages.
• Research the physician’s education and training. You may want to check online patient ratings as well – just be aware that the very thing someone else dislikes about a doctor, you may love.
• Prepare for your first visit by gathering immunization records, results of previous health screenings, the name and dosage of any medications you take on a regular basis, as well as personal and family history of illness.

Schedule an appointment with a primary care physician online now!