There are many types of primary care doctors: family medicine doctors, internal medicine doctors, OB/GYNs, pediatricians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants.
The focus of each primary medicine doctor can be a little different but,overall, their goal is the same – fulfilling all your medical needs and managing all the aspects of your health.
If you wish to work with a primary care provider who can oversee your general health needs but aren’t sure what working with a primary care provider is like, our comprehensive guide can help you.
Choosing the Right Primary Care Provider
If you have decided to work with a primary care provider(PCP), you will need to find the right physician for you. To find the best primary care provider for your needs, you can get recommendations and referrals from your social circle and other doctors, like dentists and pharmacists. You can also search for a PCP in your area in online databases.
When you have a list of PCPs in hand, choose the best one for your healthcare needs. For this, consider their credentials, the services they offer,and other patients’ reviews about the PCP and their practice. It is alsoa good idea to make an appointment with your potential PCPs before selecting one.
Scheduling an Appointment
Once you have identified a PCP you want to work with, make an initial appointment with them. Typically, you can make an appointmentonline or over the phone. The staff at the practice will likelygive you some instructions to follow before your first visit.
Preparing For a Visit
To get the most out of your visit with PCP, prepare for your visit. Gather all your medical records, know your family medical history, and write down your questions and concerns.
It’s important to be honest with your doctor so they can provide you with the highest quality care.
Initial Appointment with Primary Care Provider
During your first appointment with your PCP, they will likely perform a physical exam and ask you about your medical history, your family history, the medications and supplements you are taking, your current health concerns, your chronic illnesses if you have any, your lifestyle, and your health goals.
Based on the reason for your visit, they will also likely provide you a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan, which may include a course of action for your acute illnesses, routine screening, vaccination, and management of your chronic diseases.
Follow-up Appointments
Your PCP is your partner in your long-term care. They will schedule a follow-up appointment with you, in which they will monitor your chronic health conditions and track any changes.
Attending follow-up appointments is crucial to maintaining good health and developing a long-term relationship with your doctor. So, it is crucial you make sure to attend all your follow-up appointments.
Primary Care in Bronx, NY
At Starling Diagnostics, we offer a comprehensive range of primary care services along with imaging services. Our team includes internal medicine doctors, family physicians, women’s health specialists, cardiologists, and sports medicine doctors, who are committed to providing you with advanced and comprehensive primary care and specialty care according to your unique needs.
If you would like to make an appointment with us, call today at (718) 319-1610 or use our convenient, secure, online appointment request form.