05, Jan 2024
Overview:
Having a family physician, also known as a primary care physician, is important for many reasons. They play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of individuals and their families.
Here are some following reasons why having a family physician matter:
1. Continuity of care:
Family physicians provide ongoing care to individuals of all ages. They develop a personal and familiar relationship with their patients, which allows for better understanding of their medical history and needs.
2. Preventive care:
Family physicians emphasize the importance of preventive care, such as regular check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings. They help individuals maintain good health and detect any potential health issues early on.
3. Comprehensive care:
Family physicians are trained to handle a wide range of medical conditions, from minor illnesses to chronic diseases. They can provide holistic care and coordinate with specialists if necessary.
4. Time dedicated to patients:
Family physicians typically have smaller patient loads compared to other medical specialists. This allows them to spend more time with each patient, listening to their concerns and providing targeted care.
5. Accessibility:
Family physicians are often easily accessible and have flexible office hours, making it more convenient for individuals to seek medical assistance when needed.
6. Familiarity with family history:
Having a family physician means they have knowledge of a patient's family medical history. This information can be crucial in diagnosing and treating certain conditions that may have a genetic or hereditary component.
7. Personalized care:
Family physicians take a personalized approach to care, considering the individual's lifestyle, values, and preferences. To develop personalized treatment plans they work collaboratively with patients.
8. Coordination of care:
Family physicians serve as the central point of contact for a patient's healthcare needs. They can coordinate care between different specialists, ensuring that all aspects of a patient's health are addressed.
9. Health promotion and education:
Family physicians not only treat illnesses but also focus on promoting overall health and well-being. They provide education on healthy lifestyle choices, disease prevention, and managing chronic conditions.
10. Support for mental health:
Family physicians recognize the importance of mental health and can provide support and treatment for mental health conditions. They can also refer individuals to mental health specialists when necessary.
Conclusion:
Having a family physician is crucial for maintaining good health and ensuring comprehensive and personalized care for individuals and their families. They provide continuity of care, preventive care, and are accessible, among other benefits. Investing in a strong relationship with a family physician is a wise decision for the health and well-being of oneself and their loved ones.
Dr. Sue Mitra and her staff strive to offer their patients the best care, advice and services available in the medical field with the goal to keep patient healthy & happy.
Dr. Sue Mitra is board certified in international medicine. She is seen here with a Cologuard, which is a noninvasive colon cancer screening test. (Photo by: Tim Shortt/Florida Today)