You're unique. Your health care should be, too. That's why choosing a primary care provider (PCP) — either a primary care doctor or advanced practice provider (such as a nurse practitioner or a physician assistant) — matters when it comes to building your best overall health.
"We build a relationship with you and know your health history to give you personalized and continuous care," explains Ngoc Nguyen, an advanced practice provider at Houston Methodist.
Below are a few of the many reasons why it's important to visit a PCP.
Help tackling your health goals
With an established PCP relationship, you have a long-term partner to help you work through obstacles in your quest for better health. Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight or break the family cycle of diabetes or heart disease, your PCP can help you achieve your goal.
"I like to start with lifestyle changes," says Nguyen, a nurse practitioner. "Little changes such as adding an evening walk to your daily routine can lead you onto a healthier path."
If you need a little more help beyond lifestyle changes, your PCP may recommend tests or screenings to create a long-term health plan.
A specific focus on disease prevention
Your primary care team focuses on disease prevention — they aim to help you stay healthy. Getting an annual physical helps you stay on top of routine screenings, immunizations and general well-being year after year. (Related: The Health Metrics You Should Know)
When illness occurs, your primary care provider can help with that, too.
"If you come down with an illness, such as the flu, I understand your health needs and history, so I can help diagnose your illness and prescribe any necessary medication," Nguyen says.
Your connection to specialty care when needed
Navigating the health care system alone can be overwhelming, especially when you are managing a chronic condition. Your PCP can make it easier by briefing specialists such as cardiologists, neurologists, gastroenterologist or endocrinologists on your health challenges.
"Knowing your health history and goals helps for better provider-to-provider communication with specialists who may be involved in your care," Nguyen notes. "That supports an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that's right for you."
Your specialist will help you manage your condition, but when you need to see the doctor for a screening or illness, your PCP is the best option. Together, they are your health care team.
Support for all of your health needs
When you find a PCP who understands your medical history and beliefs, you'll form a provider-patient relationship that leads to more individualized and better care.
Your PCP can help you manage:
- Allergies and asthma
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Men's health
- Women's health
- Physicals and health screenings
- Thyroid concerns
"We make sure you're comprehensively cared for," Nguyen says. "Your health care is built on a team of doctors who are all supporting your personal health goals."
In need of a primary care provider? We can help
Houston Methodist Primary Care Group has more than 45 practices across the Greater Houston area. To find a provider near you, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg.