If you changed insurance recently, moved or your “regular doctor” retired recently, you may have been told you need to choose a new primary care doctor. But, what exactly does that mean?
A primary care provider – also referred to as a PCP -- is a physician or advanced practice provider who provides both the first contact for a person with an undiagnosed health concern as well as continuing care for a variety of medical conditions. When necessary, the PCP may refer you to a doctor with more experience and training in a specific medical area, such as a cardiologist for a heart concern or an endocrinologist if you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes.
“Healthcare is complex,” explained Bonnie Grude, APRN, a Family Medicine advanced practice registered nurse. “Having a PCP is essential to preventing and recognizing illness early. A PCP provides you with the security in knowing that you can easily get your health needs met when you need them addressed.”
When choosing a PCP either for yourself, your child or even an elderly member of your family, you will want to make sure that provider meets your particular needs. There are several medical areas to choose from, including:
- Family Medicine providers have been trained to care for patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly.
- Pediatricians specialize in caring for children, from birth through early adulthood.
- Internists care for adults, but some see patients who are in their late teens.
- Obstetricians and gynecologists (OB-Gyns) are experts in the female reproductive system. Some women will choose a Family Medicine or Internal Medicine provider to provide these services or will utilize an OB-Gyn in addition to another PCP.
- Geriatricians specialize in the health of patients over the age of 60.
“It is important to be able to feel comfortable with your PCP,” Bonnie said. “When choosing my own PCP, I look for a knowledgeable and compassionate provider who can easily communicate their clinical judgment.”
PCPs can be physicians OR physician assistants and nurse practitioners (collectively referred to as advanced practice providers) who work under a qualified physician.
Not everyone chooses to engage a regular PCP, but research shows people who do are more likely to receive preventive screenings, fill prescriptions and get early treatment for chronic diseases, leading to improved health outcomes.
