Primary care physicians are doctors who see patients with common illnesses and chronic condition management. This is typically the doctor you see most often when you get sick. Primary care physicians keep track of your long-term health and refer you to specialists as the need arises. Having a close, transparent, and positive relationship with your primary care physician is highly recommended. If you haven’t been seeing a primary care physician on a regular basis, you are missing out on the wide-ranging services that can benefit your health and improve your well-being.
Below are several compelling reasons why you should visit a primary care physician.
Holistic Care
Primary care physicians provide holistic care, meaning they look at the whole person and not just the current symptoms. In order to get a clear picture of your overall health, a primary care physician will get to know you, learn your medical and family history, and develop a long-term relationship with you. They will create disease prevention plans and coordinate your care to ensure positive health outcomes. A primary care physician cares about your overall well-being, not a certain aspect of your health like a specialist provider does.
Chronic Disease Management
Poorly managed chronic diseases can lead to low quality of life and potentially fatal outcomes. Research shows that patients who see their primary care physician for chronic disease management live longer. Patients with chronic diseases, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can improve symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and live a normal life with the help of their primary care physician.
Weight Loss
A primary care physician can help you reach your weight loss goals. Medically supervised weight loss programs are available at most primary care doctor offices. Maintaining a healthy weight is a preventive measure against disease. A primary care doctor’s knowledge of diet and exercise, as well as your medical history and lifestyle, allows them to create a personalized weight loss program for you. Having a doctor’s support is also a great motivator.
Lower Healthcare Costs
Regular visits to a primary care physician are not only necessary but also extremely beneficial. The preventive and management services you receive reduce the risk of future hospitalizations and emergency room (ER) visits. Research shows that patients who see their primary care physicians have fewer hospitalizations and ER visits, which translates to lower healthcare costs.
Health Checks and Screenings
Health screenings, as well as medical wellness and annual check-ups, are available at primary care physician clinics. Your primary care physician will provide recommendations for health screenings for certain health conditions, such as breast cancer and colon cancer, based on your risk factors. Screenings help detect cancers and other diseases in the early stages when they are most successfully treatable.
Primary Care Physician in Irmo, SC
Our primary care physicians at SC Internal Medicine Associates and Rehabilitation, LLC are trained in the field of internal medicine. We can treat the health conditions that affect adults, including psychiatric problems, sleep problems, orthopedic conditions, skin problems, metabolic diseases, and more.
We offer comprehensive diagnostic services in our facility and are an independent practice, provide ease of scheduling. To schedule a visit with a primary care physician, call our clinic at (803) 749-1111 or use our online request form. We look forward to being your long-term health partner.
