The first point of contact to access the entire health system typically starts with a primary care provider. They are well-trained in evaluating the whole body and treating many medical conditions. A primary care doctor is also important in helping navigate chronic medical conditions, reducing risk factors for diseases, and improving your overall wellness. Primary care practitioners are the day-to-day managers of your health, evaluate you when you are sick, and refer you to specialists when needed.

Depending on your health insurance type, a primary care practitioner may be required to provide a referral to see a specialist. Therefore, having a primary doctor can improve your access to the medical care you need. As your long-term healthcare provider, they help arrange appropriate screenings to catch diseases in their early stages and provide tips for achieving a healthier lifestyle. Research studies have shown that having a primary care provider is associated with an improved quality of life while reducing the overall cost of medical care.

Primary care provider is a broad term used to identify many different types of physicians who provide long-term care to a patient population. These providers include general practitioners, internists, pediatricians, and obstetrics and gynecologists. In other words, a general practitioner is a primary care provider, but not all primary care providers are general practitioners.

A general practitioner provides care to patients of all ages and genders. They are often trained in family medicine and are convenient for families seeking a physician for all members of the family.

When determining how often to visit a primary care physician, there are a few factors that need to be considered — age and health. If you are under the age of 50 and healthy, you may only need to visit the doctor’s office once every three years. For those who are 50 and older, it is recommended to see your primary care provider at least once a year. This once-a-year recommendation is also for those who take prescription medications for a health condition.

For those with chronic medical conditions requiring frequent evaluations, such as diabetes, it is not uncommon to see your primary care physician every three months or sooner. The frequency of follow-up will be determined by your doctor and is often based on each person’s situation.

When choosing a primary care physician in South Daytona, it is important to consider these five items.

• “In-Network” providers. To avoid any surprise charges or uncovered medical visits, check with your health plan to see if the clinic’s practitioners are considered “in-network” by your health plan. Ensure the clinic has doctors who take Medicare if this is your primary insurance.
• Expertise meets your health needs. Several different types of primary care physicians are available. Therefore, it is essential to choose a doctor that meets your or your family’s particular health needs.
• Referrals. Check with other family members, friends, and co-workers to see who they use as a primary care physician. This provides you with first-hand knowledge about the provider.
• Logistics. Select a local doctor’s office that is close to home, work, or your child’s school. This can reduce the hassle of attending appointments or quickly obtaining a check-up when you are sick.
• Make an appointment. You should feel comfortable and confident with your primary care provider. If you do not, there is no harm in choosing a different physician.

New patients can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 386-388-5771 and talking to one of our patient care specialists. They will get you registered and provide you with various open appointment options.

Already a patient at our clinic, the patient portal can be used to schedule your next appointment. New to the patient portal, no worries, create a new account using the easy-to-follow steps provided on the portal website. The patient portal provides you access to your care anytime and from anywhere.

New patients can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 386-388-5771 and talking to one of our patient care specialists. They will get you registered and provide you with various open appointment options.

Already a patient at our clinic, the patient portal can be used to schedule your next appointment. New to the patient portal, no worries, create a new account using the easy-to-follow steps provided on the portal website. The patient portal provides you access to your care anytime and from anywhere.

When visiting your local doctor’s office, it is important to bring your current health insurance information and any documents you need for the doctor to fill out. Have a list of your current medications and vitamins/supplements, with the name, dosage, and frequency of each medication you take. Finally, create a list of questions you want to ask the doctor, this will ensure you make the most of your appointment and leave feeling satisfied all your questions were answered.