Primary care physicians provide general medical care for patients of all ages, from kids to adults. They are also usually the first contact point for people who fall sick. Family practice doctors fall under the category of primary care.
Family practice covers many comprehensive services to help you live a healthy life. Here are some examples of office procedures you can get done at our family practice:
Well Visits
Well visits are check-ups that ensure you are maintaining your health. These appointments help identify potential health concerns early on, when they are easier to treat and control.
Your family physician will likely recommend that you come in for a well visit at least once a year. It is different from routine check-ups, where patients with chronic illnesses come in frequently to monitor their health.
Counseling On Lifestyle Changes
Family physicians often counsel their patients on lifestyle changes during well visits. Healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Your doctor can provide you with information on healthy eating and physical activity. They can also help patients quit smoking and manage their weight.
Sick Visits
Sick visits are for patients experiencing symptoms of illness and in need to see a doctor to get treatment. Your family physician can diagnose and treat various common diseases, like the flu, strep throat, and sinus infection.
When you visit your doctor after falling ill, your family physician will start by diagnosing what might be wrong. Then, they will develop a treatment plan. It may involve prescribing medication, ordering diagnostic tests, or referring you to a specialist.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests help doctors diagnose diseases and determine the best course of treatment. Your family physician can perform them in their office in a lot of cases. Your family physician may order many standard tests like a blood test, a urine test, or a throat culture.
Minor Invasive Treatments
Family physicians are trained to perform minor invasive treatments, like skin biopsy collection, wart removal, and joint injections. Minor invasive treatments are done in the doctor’s office and only require local numbing, if that.
Preventive And Routine Services
You can also receive preventive and routine services from your family physician. Some of these services include:
Immunizations
Immunizations help protect you from diseases by injecting you with a weakened or dead form of a virus or illness. It helps build up your immunity, so you are less likely to develop the disease if you come into contact with it in the future.
Family physicians may administer the flu vaccine, the HPV vaccine, the chickenpox vaccine, and many more, depending on your age.
Physical Examinations
A physical examination is an evaluation of your general health. During the exam, your doctor will check your vital signs, like blood pressure and heart rate. They will also assess your physical appearance and perform a general examination of your body.
Family doctors often perform physical examinations during well visits or sick visits, or for specific needs, such as for school admission or clearance to play a sport.
Screenings
Screenings are tests that check for diseases or conditions that may not have symptoms. These examinations allow for the early detection and treatment of these illnesses.
Your provider may conduct a screening of your blood pressure, cholesterol level, and cancer detection.
Other Tests
Your family physician may order other tests like imaging or genetic testing.
Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs can help diagnose diseases and assess the severity of your injuries. Genetic testing can determine if you risk developing certain hereditary disorders.
Family Practice Near You In Irmo, SC
Family physicians play a vital role in the health of patients. They provide a wide range of services, from routine check-ups to minor invasive treatments. By offering these services in one location, family physicians make it easy for you to get the care you need. Working with a family physician allows you to receive comprehensive care to maintain your health and well-being.
SC Internal Medicine Associates and Rehabilitation, LLC is here if you’re looking for a family practice near you. Our highly trained and experienced providers are always delighted to give compassionate care to families.
You may call our friendly staff at (803) 749-1111 to learn about our services. You may also fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form to book a consultation with a family care physician. We look forward to serving you!
