10 Reasons Why You Need a Primary Care Doctor

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 95.1% of U.S. children see a healthcare provider each year, compared to only 85.2% of U.S. adults. So, why the dip? What exactly is a primary care provider and why are annual check-ups so important for adults? The following ten reasons explain the benefits of having a primary care doctor.

1. Holistic Health Care with a Primary Care Doctor

Whether you're dealing with a persistent cough, experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression or have questions about which vaccines are right for you and when, your primary care doctor is your first stop for support.

“Primary care” refers to routine, preventive health care provided by an internal medicine or family medicine doctor. A primary care provider offers holistic health care, meaning, they address a wide range of physical, emotional and mental health needs — all in one convenient primary care clinic visit. This makes it easier to discuss multiple concerns with your provider at once.

Family Medicine vs Internal Medicine

Family Medicine

• Cares for patients of all ages
• Broad training in pediatrics, pregnancy and minor procedures
• Whole family and preventive care

Internal Medicine

• Cares for adults ages 18+ only
• May have more training in cardiology or infectious disease
• Prevent, diagnose and manage complex diseases

Both

• Primary care providers
• Preventive care, annual physicals and chronic disease management
• Refer to specialists, as needed

2. Better Chronic Disease Management

Managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and arthritis are challenging on your own. Primary care doctors help you understand the impact of your disease and options for managing it, while tracking your progress through routine check-ups.

Regular appointments and preventive healthcare screenings are important ways they assist you in maintaining your health.

3. Care from Someone You Know and Trust

Feeling comfortable when talking about your health is essential. That’s why finding a primary care doctor you trust is the first step. When you build a relationship with a provider who understands the ins and outs of your health history, it's easier to be open about your symptoms, habits and goals.

In fact, research from the National Institutes of Health shows people who trust their primary care doctors tend to be more satisfied with their care. The more you connect with your doctor through regular visits, the stronger your relationship becomes and the better your overall healthcare experience.

4. Care from Experts Who Understand Your Health History

Beyond making you feel more at ease, regular visits help your primary care provider build a clear picture of your medical past and family history. This knowledge helps your doctor spot early symptoms of serious illnesses and create a personalized care plan.

5. Lower Overall Health Costs

Research from the Journal of Health Affairs suggests routine appointments with a primary care doctor help patients save money on health care in the long run. Regular screenings, a record of your health history and ongoing communication with your primary care provider all contribute to an overall lower cost of care.

6. Stay on Top of Routine Screenings

Getting your blood pressure or cholesterol checked at every appointment might feel routine, but these screenings play a big role in protecting your holistic health and wellness. Visits with your primary care doctor aren’t just about a diagnosis and treatment when you’re sick, they’re about preventing illnesses altogether. Routine testing helps identify potential issues before they escalate into more serious health problems. Regular wellness exams catch issues like hypertension early, reducing your risk of heart disease or stroke — both leading causes of death in the U.S.

7. Health Issues Are Caught Earlier

Routine screenings are great for early detection, but your primary care doctor's personal knowledge of you and your lifestyle is also important. Their familiarity with your health habits, history and family risks allows them to ask the right questions and catch health issues early — sometimes before they show up on routine tests.

8. Referrals to the Right Medical Specialists

If you need a referral to a doctor in a specialized field, such as a pulmonologist, ENT specialist or cardiologist, begin by scheduling an appointment with your primary care doctor. Because they know your health history and how you like to be involved in your care, they can connect you with specialists who take a deeper dive into your specific health concern and coordinate your care with your primary care team.

9. Fewer Hospital and ER Visits

Research shows patients who see their primary care provider regularly have fewer hospitalizations and emergency visits than those who don’t have established care. Waiting too long to see a doctor, or ignoring symptoms, can lead to a hospitalization or an ER visit — two costly, stressful and time-consuming outcomes.

10. Easier Communication and Ongoing Support

It's essential to have open communication with your doctor. Being honest about your goals, needs and concerns helps your doctor provide you with the best possible support. Your primary care doctor should also feel comfortable being honest with you about their health advice and concerns. This two-way conversation is the foundation of a successful partnership.

When you've established a relationship with your provider, you can also reach your doctor through MyUnityPoint, our patient app, for clarification on medications you're currently taking or to ask follow-up questions related to your visit.

How to Find a Primary Care Doctor

Not sure how to choose a primary care physician? Making your health a priority starts with the right partner. Our find a doctor feature connects you with a primary care provider who fits your needs.

Consider choosing a primary care clinic with hours and a location that align with your schedule. You can also search for providers by preferred language or gender to ensure you're comfortable during your visits. Once you pick a primary care doctor, check with your insurance provider to ensure they're in your network.