Primary CareVista, CA

Understanding Primary Care

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, primary care is the branch of medicine provided by skilled physicians trained in comprehensive first contact and continuing care. This type of care also applies to any patients with undiagnosed symptoms or health concerns. Furthermore, primary care is not limited by the origin of any health concerns — whether they stem from biological, behavioral, or social factors.

Aside from promoting health, preventing disease, and maintaining wellness, primary care also involves counseling, patient education, and diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses. Primary care may occur in various healthcare settings, such as in-patient, critical care, long-term care, and more. Patients will typically only have one primary care physician who collaborates with other health professionals, communicating with them for consultations and referrals as appropriate.

Primary Care Practitioners

Primary care doctors are a patient’s first entry point with the healthcare system and the focal point for all necessary, comprehensive care. Typically, they are specialists in family medicine, internal medicine, or pediatrics. Some non-primary care doctors may also provide primary care services. In such cases, these physicians will typically focus on disease prevention, health maintenance, acute care, and chronic care or rehabilitation.

However, because these physicians do not offer such services within the broader scope of comprehensive, first contact and continuing care, they must work with fully-trained primary care doctors to fully ensure patient health. Primary care doctors undergo specific training through residencies or fellowship training to provide comprehensive primary care services in acute and chronic care settings. Primary care doctors can refer patients to specialists if they suffer from any conditions beyond their scope. They may also assist in coordinating medical treatments across specialties.

Why Primary Care

Eventually, everyone needs some form of medical care — whether it be due to acute or chronic illness. The latter especially requires professional guidance with regards to diagnoses and treatments. Our primary care doctors can treat patients for various common health conditions, including, but not limited to, back pain, headaches, respiratory infections, and urinary infections. They can also address chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity.

Patients can rest easy knowing that their primary care doctors are well-versed in handling multiple treatments, medications, and medication interactions. Sticking with a single primary care doctor can improve patient experience and is associated with better overall healthcare access. A secure patient-doctor relationship allows for genuine rapport about a patient’s needs and desires regarding treatment while ensuring that the doctor knows the patient’s entire medical history.

How to Find a Primary Care Doctor

Those looking for a primary care doctor often start by asking someone they trust, like their friends or family. However, every person has different needs and preferences. Patients looking to treat specific health concerns should make sure that any doctor they consider is familiar with treating similar patients. It is essential to keep location in mind, as patients will visit their primary care doctor for everyday health needs. Choosing a doctor that is too far away may keep them from visiting as frequently as they should. Those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan may have transportation benefits to help them get to and from their doctor appointments.

Regardless of Medicare coverage, all patients should check that their insurance plan covers their potential primary care doctor. Most health insurance plans will charge more for doctors outside of their network or not cover them at all. As such, this step is critical in preventing any unnecessary costs. Patients should also ensure that their doctor is board-certified through the Certification Matters site. Certification guarantees that primary care doctors have met the state licensing requirements and have passed comprehensive internal medicine exams.

Call Us Today

When you are looking for a primary care physician, you want to make sure you choose someone you can trust. At A Personal Physician, we pride ourselves on providing each of our patients with the quality care they deserve. Call us today at (760) 940-7000 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services. Contact us for next appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need a primary care doctor if I rarely get sick?

Yes. A primary care doctor can help patients maintain their good health, prevent future health conditions, and identify dormant or asymptomatic illnesses. Preventive care is the key to wellness. A primary care doctor can offer immunizations, imaging and lab testing, cancer screenings, and more. Preventive measures also lead to lower overall health costs.

What concerns should I bring up to my primary care doctor?

You should feel comfortable bringing up any concerns or changes regarding your health, including depression and anxiety. Let us know if you are experiencing painful or uncomfortable symptoms interfering with your daily life, sickness associated with medications, or problems sleeping. We can also advise you with healthy decision-making and lifestyle choices.

Is there a difference between family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatric medicine doctors?

Yes and no. All three types are primary care doctors. However, internal medicine doctors treat adults while a pediatrician treats children. Family medicine doctors can treat both pediatricians and adults.

How are physician assistants and nurse practitioners involved in primary care?

Physician assistants (PAs) can practice medicine, diagnose patients, and prescribe treatments under a physician, surgeon, or other healthcare workers. Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses with advanced clinical training. They can diagnose and treat patients, perform complicated procedures, and prescribe medications without supervision.

How often should I see a primary care doctor?

All patients should see their primary care doctor at least once yearly for an annual checkup. Your health insurance may cover the cost of this visit and other preventive care services. Call your provider to confirm.