Why is it important to have a primary care provider?

Most of us associate going to the doctor with being sick or injured, but even the healthiest adults should see a primary care provider regularly in order to best manage their health. Establishing care with a primary care provider gives you comfort and consistency on several different levels. Here’s 5 key reasons why having a relationship with a Primary Care Provider (PCP) is crucial to your overall health:

It’s a one-stop shop for healthcare

If you’re starting to feel cold symptoms, but also have questions about what vaccines you need or what to do when you feel anxious, you only need to make one doctor’s appointment to access a wide range of services. Your primary care provider focuses on holistic health care, meaning your doctor is trained in treating a little bit of everything and coordinates your care in one central location.

They help spot health problems before they become serious

Taking your blood pressure at every appointment might seem like a task but undergoing testing on a regular basis helps catch symptoms before they get worse or lead to debilitating health issues. This also means that you can start getting treatment earlier which could save you a trip to the hospital had it become a serious problem.

It’s the best way to manage existing health conditions

Existing health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or high cholesterol can be difficult to manage on your own. Your primary care provider can schedule routine tests so you can have the most up-to-date information about your conditions and can help you stay on track in terms of taking your medications.

They can point you in the right direction

Though your primary care provider is trained to help both your physical and mental health, certain health conditions may require a visit to a specialist. Do you need a referral to see an ENT or a cardiologist? Start with an appointment with your primary care provider, and chances are your doctor has helpful recommendations for specialists.

They know you best

By scheduling regular appointments with your primary care provider through the years, you’ll feel more comfortable having conversations about your health and asking the right questions to ensure your needs are met. Routine visits with your primary care provider not only help with your comfort level, but they also build on your health history. Knowledge of your previous health history is essential for prevention of diseases and helps your doctor catch early symptoms of serious conditions.

Do you or someone you know need a primary care provider? Visit touro.com/findadoc or call 504-897-7777 to find a provider close to you.

Dr. Stephanie Losq-Sarkar specializes in Family Medicine at Touro. After earning her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, Dr. Losq-Sarkar completed residency at Cone Health in Greensboro, North Carolina. Dr. Losq-Sarkar chose to practice Family Medicine because it allows her to treat the patient as a whole person. A little something extra about Dr. Losq-Sarkar: “I enjoy making a good quiche.”