Unlike other primary care physicians who may focus only on a particular part of the body, specific types of diseases, or people of specific ages, a family physician provides comprehensive care for everyone. They can diagnose, treat, and prevent health issues for all members of the family through all stages of life.
You certainly don’t have to have a family in order to have a family physician as your doctor – these doctors are general practitioners who are ready to treat you. Let’s talk about some of the key roles a family physician performs for their patients, and where you can go in Irmo and the Midlands for outstanding medical care.
Treating Sudden Health Problems
If you have caught a cold or the flu, or if your back pain is getting worse, your family physician is your go-to medical professional for treatment. This doctor will determine a diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment for your health complaints. They can also order tests and refer you to medical specialists if necessary.
Family physicians can take care of all health issues and conditions, ranging from minor infections and non-life-threatening health emergencies (such as minor cuts and burns) to your concerns about your child’s weight or growth.
Identifying Diseases and Susceptibilities
Seeing a family physician can actually save your life. This is because when you see a family doctor on a regular basis, they know you and your medical history, and they understand what you may be susceptible to in the future.
This helps them recognize the potential signs of any emerging condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, which would warrant immediate treatment. They will also reevaluate your therapies as necessary, and make sure that your treatment is working for you – and also ensure that you are not taking any medications that have contraindications, which means they could work against each other or cause an adverse effect.
Managing Chronic Illnesses
If you are suffering from a chronic disease such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or a neurological disease, your family physician is your first point of contact for personalized and ongoing care. They may order certain tests periodically to keep an eye on the disease.
Administering Preventive Care
Family physicians oversee preventive care by offering patient education as well as administering vaccinations as necessary. They will not only rescue you when you are sick but also save you from getting sick in the first place.
A family doctor is also concerned about your mental and emotional health. They are adept at helping patients with anger management, stress relief, weight management, fertility counseling, and nutritional counseling.
Family Physicians in Irmo, SC
If you are looking for a skilled and dedicated family physician, look no further than our board-certified family physicians and family medical practitioners here at SC Internal Medicine Associates and Rehabilitation. Our family physicians are committed to your health and offering you the compassionate and comprehensive medical care you and your family deserve.
To book an appointment with one of our outstanding family physicians, call us today at (803) 749-1111 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to seeing you here!
