The Importance of Having a Primary Care Provider

When was your last annual checkup? If it has been more than a year, or you don’t even have a primary care provider, it is time to start thinking about getting one.

Having a primary care provider (PCP) is crucial for maintaining long-term health, yet many people overlook this need, especially if they feel healthy and are not experiencing any symptoms. It is easy to assume that if you don’t feel sick, you don’t need to see a doctor. However, this misconception can lead to missed opportunities for early detection and prevention of potential health issues.

In fact, primary care is proven to help prevent illness and death. Routine visits with a primary care provider may help identify early warning signs of illness, allowing for timely treatment.

Keep reading to learn more about what a PCP does and the benefits of having one.

What are the different types of primary care providers?

If you are looking for a new provider, you may come across several types of medical professionals who specialize in primary care, including:  

• Family practitioners
• Pediatricians
• Geriatricians
• Physician assistants
• Nurse practitioners
• Internists
• Obstetricians and gynecologists

Each of these providers are trained in primary care, but some have a specialty or focus on a particular age or gender. For example, a pediatrician cares for children while a geriatrician specializes in the needs of people who are aging. Obstetricians and gynecologists are experts in reproductive health, which is a specialized type of primary care.  

Whether you opt for a family physician, internist or nurse practitioner, the key is finding a provider you trust and feel comfortable with. Check out our blog, How to Find the Best Provider, for more tips.

Why do I need a primary care provider?

You should see your provider at least once a year so they can provide preventive care, diagnose and manage chronic conditions and address any new health concerns. By establishing a relationship with a PCP, they get to know your medical and family history, which can help identify your personal risk factors and any changes in your health. Plus, you will have access to a provider who can oversee your care if you do get sick — ensuring you receive personalized attention and avoid more costly care settings, like urgent care.  

Having a consistent relationship with a provider can also make it easier to talk openly about your health, including any physical and emotional concerns. A physical exam and medical tests provide valuable information, but your symptoms can help point your provider in the right direction. Get the most out of your appointment with our tips for communicating with your provider.

Your primary care provider is central to your overall care and your first point of contact within the health care system. If you need specialized care, your PCP can refer you to the right specialists and coordinate your care among multiple providers. Notifying your primary care provider about the treatments and medications you receive from other providers reduces the risk of conflicting treatments and ensures that your treatment plan considers all aspects of your health.

What does a primary care provider do at an annual checkup?

If you haven’t had an annual checkup in a while, you may be wondering what to expect. Your annual exam may consist of:

Physical exam

Your provider will gather vital signs, check your height and weight, and examine your heart, lungs, abdomen and reflexes to look for abnormalities that could be a sign of illness or disease. Even if you are healthy, regular physical exams can help create a baseline to see how your health changes from year to year.

Cancer screenings

Specific cancer screenings, based on your age, gender and other risk factors, may be necessary at your annual appointment. Common cancer screenings that may be included in your annual physical include breast, cervical, colorectal, prostate, skin and lung cancer. Seeing your provider regularly can help them recognize health changes and symptoms of illness.  

Diet and physical fitness evaluation

Living a healthy life can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of illness, like heart disease, diabetes and depression. Be honest with your provider about your nutrition and how often you incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Your provider can develop a personalized plan to help you get the nutrition and exercise you need to maintain your health.

Immunizations

Immunizations can help prevent illness and reduce the risk of complications if you do get sick. Some vaccines are recommended yearly, like a flu shot, and some are needed every few years, such as a tetanus shot. Your provider can help you keep track of your immunization history to make sure you are getting the vaccines you need. You can also use the vaccine schedules from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help you and your family stay up to date.

Chronic condition management

Your primary care provider is an expert in a broad range of conditions and can help set goals, explain treatment options and create a personalized management plan. Keeping up with your routine visits allows your PCP to assess your health over time and adjust your treatment plan.

Having a primary care provider (PCP) is essential for maintaining your health and well-being. A PCP serves as your healthcare partner, offering personalized preventive care and ensuring that any health issues are addressed early and effectively. They provide continuity of care, coordinate treatments, and offer guidance through the complexities of the healthcare system. By building a relationship with your primary care provider and seeing them regularly, even when you aren’t sick, you can help decrease your chance of serious illness.

Preventive care visits are free under the Compass Rose Health Plan when visiting a network provider. Use our provider directory to find a provider near you.