Primary Care, Annual Appointments, and Goals
Did you know that about 1 in 5 Americans haven’t seen their primary care provider (PCP) in over five years? Many people turn to the internet to solve acute medical conditions instead of going to see a doctor. It’s quick, and you receive answers instantaneously. However, your PCP can help you with much more than a simple diagnosis. When you visit a PCP, you receive the benefit of a long-term relationship. Unlike a website, your doctor can help build personalized healthy habits to prevent serious medical conditions. At Harbin Clinic, primary care providers also have easy access to other specialties, so if a serious medical problem arises, your continuity of care between doctors is seamless. Scheduling an appointment with a primary care provider is a great first step to building a strong foundation.
“My position as a primary care provider allows me to support my patients through big and small changes and help every step along the way. More than just seeking acute medical treatments, it is important for people to visit their PCP in order to prepare for their future health. Your primary care physician is an excellent resource when jumpstarting a new health journey,” shares Dr. Katharine Ammons, Internal Medicine Rome.
Primary care providers cover the day-to-day health care needs of their patients. They prioritize understanding their patient’s personal and family health history, tracking important milestones and routine exams, and developing personalized treatment plans focused on healthy living. With the explosion of conflicting medical knowledge online, it is crucial to have a primary care provider to advise you on the right course of action.
“As a primary care physician, we can help our patients set goals and reach them while keeping their physical and mental health top of mind,” says Dr. Garvin Chandler, Family Medicine Adairsville.
A PCP should be the first point of contact for patients’ health care needs, and they are able to further refer the patient to a specialist if necessary. Research suggests that people who annually see a PCP maintain a higher quality of life.
“As a primary care physician, we can help our patients set goals and reach them while keeping their physical and mental health top of mind. One of the best parts of what I do is seeing patients annually, making sure they’re on a healthy track, answering any questions they may have, and continuously building upon these relationships year over year,” says Dr. Garvin Chandler, Family Medicine Adairsville.
Lifestyle changes that support healthy living include losing weight, gaining muscle, getting more physical activity, eating more nutritious foods, quitting cigarettes, cutting back on alcohol, reducing stress and sleeping better. It is important to visit your primary care provider at least once a year. Our Harbin Clinic Family Medicine and Internal Medicine care teams are here for you to help you reach your health goals, no matter how big or small.
Content was updated January 2023.
