The practice of family medicine covers a wide spectrum in primary care, covering the life of a human being from infancy to end-of-life. Family doctors are trained and equipped to handle the many facets of healthcare as a person grows through life, and as such, are usually able to form lasting and meaningful relationships with their patients.
That said, if you are looking for a family doctor to take care of your health and that of your loved ones, there are a few things that you first need to know. This information will help you find “the best fit” in terms of the most qualified professional who can effectively address your needs.
Why do family doctors cover such a large age range?
A family doctor can keep track of the various hereditary traits that occur in a family and gather data on possible conditions not just for a few days or weeks, but for years or maybe even decades.
This gives a family doctor a unique insight into your health, especially if they are aware of the state of health of the rest of your family as well. As such, family doctors are better able to make nuanced diagnoses and better able to design solutions for your family’s various conditions and illnesses.
A great working relationship can be built with a family doctor
Going to a hospital for the treatment of an illness can be cold and clinical, but having a good relationship based on trust with a family doctor can provide all the warmth that hospitals often exclude from their bedside manner.
The consistency of having a doctor in your life can also help with the long term health of not just you, but your entire family that urgent care and other clinics cannot help with.
What are some specializations of family doctors?
Such doctors are specialized and skilled in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of acute conditions such as:
- Urinary tract infections
- Rashes
- Colds and congestion
- Lacerations
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath and more
Family doctors are capable of identifying whatever conditions you might have based on the medical history of you and your family. They are also well-equipped to handle chronic illnesses, such as :
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Diabetes
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- A long list of heart diseases, and so much more
How regularly should I go for checkups?
Your family would benefit greatly from yearly physicals and screenings. It is important to have conversations with your doctor about what you can do to improve the health and quality of life of you and your loved ones.
It is also important to keep your doctor aware of any milestones in the lives of your children, especially in critical times of their development, like puberty.
Having a family doctor can decrease your medical costs
When visiting hospitals or clinics, you are likely to be referred to a specialist. This often raises the cost and adds an extra step on the way to diagnosis and treatment. Having a relationship with a family doctor, on the other hand, can reduce the need for referrals to specialists, as they are equipped to handle a wide range of diseases and conditions on their own.
Many people put off getting screened for whatever condition they might be suffering for fear of rising medical costs. Having a family doctor with whom you have a trusting relationship can help with these fears, as it reduces both costs and the anxiety brought about dealing with illness.
Conclusion
Now more than ever, it is important for a family to stay healthy, given the rapid transmission of COVID-19. Having a family doctor is like having your own personal frontliner, dedicated to the protection of you and your loved ones. These days, that can mean the difference between life and death.
If you’re looking for a family doctor in New Jersey, we at Agile Urgent Care have all the resources and expertise you need to take better care of you and your loved ones. Send us a message for a consultation.
