Photo Credit: Memorial HermannHealth
Benefits of Having a Primary Care Provider
Your primary care provider (PCP) is your dedicated wellness partner through each stage of life. From annual checkups and immunizations to minor illnesses and chronic-condition management, your PCP is your “go to” health care provider who acts as a central point of contact for managing your health. Most PCPs are family medicine or internal medicine physicians, but advanced-practice providers (nurse practitioners or physician assistants) can also be PCPs.
Why should you seek primary care at Memorial Hermann?
Health care today can be over-complicated. The goal at Memorial Hermann is to simplify the process with fully integrated care through our comprehensive network of physicians and services. Patients often come in without knowing what’s wrong or where to turn. Having a dedicated PCP, who can coordinate whatever type of care you need, is the answer.
Personalized Care
Establishing a long-term relationship with your PCP allows for more personalized care. Your provider gets to know your specific needs and keeps track of your health details, so you don’t need to reexplain your health history at each visit. Your PCP is your trusted health partner, making it easier for you to talk about sensitive health topics.
Because your PCP is the central provider of your care, they can oversee all of your medication usage to help spot any prescription or over-the-counter medications that could negatively interact with other medications or supplements you may be taking.
Convenience
Primary care is a convenient “one-stop shop” for a wide range of health services:
- Preventive care, including checkups, vaccinations, health screenings and healthy-lifestyle education
- Diagnosis and care for common conditions, including colds, influenza (flu), strep throat, digestive issues, infections and minor injuries
- Diagnosis, treatment and management for chronic conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure
Early Detection
When a health problem is detected early, you are likely to have more treatment options which can lead to better outcomes. An annual wellness visit, including cancer screenings, lab work and other preventive services, is an opportunity to identify any health problems before they turn into more serious conditions.
Coordinated Care
To deliver more streamlined, efficient and coordinated care, your PCP is connected with a team of physicians and can provide a referral to a specialist if needed. Because your PCP understands your history and needs, they can help you select a specialist who is a good fit for you.
Health Maintenance
When you see your PCP consistently, for preventive care when you are well and for treatment when you are sick, you can work together to optimize your health. Regular visits allow your PCP to get to know you, your health history, your needs and concerns, and your goals for a healthy future. Whether it’s how to maintain a healthy weight or steps you can take to prevent conditions from developing or progressing, your PCP is here for you.
What to Expect From Your PCP
A Memorial Hermann PCP is your trusted health partner and your first point of contact when you need medical attention. The PCP will get to know your health goals, health history, any chronic conditions you may have, and your treatment options. If you need to see a specialist, your PCP can refer you to someone to care for you. Our PCPs have working relationships with a range of specialty providers, so you can feel comfortable knowing you are part of a team effort to care for all of your medical needs.
Click HERE to find a primary care physician in your area and receive valuable content from Memorial Hermann providers to help you take charge of your health & wellness.
Source: Memorial Hermann
