Why is primary care so important?

Choosing a Primary Care Provider is a requirement for Polk HealthCare Plan members, and regardless of your insurance or health coverage, it should be one of the first steps you take.

Primary care and prevention

Preventing health issues is a lot easier than correcting them, which is why there is a huge emphasis placed on primary care. Primary care can be defined as health services that deal with prevention, wellness, treatment and disease management.

Many people think that going to the doctor when you’re not sick is a waste of time. The reality is, getting established with a Primary Care Provider (PCP) before you need one positions you for the best possible treatment when you do come down with a cold or develop a condition.

Building a relationship with your PCP

Routine preventive visits allow your PCP to build a relationship with you and get familiar with your health history and information. A PCP can help you detect, treat and manage many different health issues. They know a little bit of everything, and can coordinate care for you in one place.

In addition, PCPs can connect you with resources or teach you how to live a healthier life. They can screen for diseases, provide medications and refer you to specialists when more specific care is needed. Routine screenings and annual physicals will help keep you in better health, keeping healthcare costs low.

Your health matters

The truth is that your health may not be at the top of your priority list for any number of reasons. You may be responsible for caring for a sick or elderly relative, you may work multiple jobs to put food on the table, or maybe you don’t know where to start because going to the doctor is overwhelming. Does any of this sound familiar? Whatever your reasons, there is a case to be made for your health, and it starts with finding a Primary Care Provider.