5 Benefits of Primary Care

A primary care doctor is your first stop and one-stop-shop for all your health needs. A primary care physician is a generalist who can treat a wide variety of health issues, as opposed to a specialist. For health issues that require a specialist, a primary care doctor can refer you to the right one.

From minor cuts and bruises to chronic health issues such as diabetes and asthma, a primary care doctor can help you manage all facets of your health. At Wasatch Peak Family Practice in Layton, Utah, our family doctors offer primary care and pediatric services so your whole family can benefit from their experience. Here, they share five of the many benefits of primary care.

Early detection of diseases

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that adults with primary care were significantly more likely to receive more cancer screenings, including colorectal cancer screening and mammography, and have had a wellness exam in the past year. Regular screenings help catch cancer early, when it’s more treatable. In addition, according to the National Cancer Institute, effective screenings reduce the chance that someone will die from cancer.

Trusted medical care

Primary care is comprehensive. The same health team addresses all your health needs at all life stages. Having someone who tracks all your health issues and conditions makes it easier to discuss sensitive issues with them. And, the ongoing relationship between a primary care doctor and their patient makes it easier for a doctor to make relevant recommendations for their patient’s health. 

Better health outcomes

Research shows that those who see a primary care doctor have better health outcomes. It’s likely the benefits mentioned above as well as a focus on prevention help reduce health risks. Additionally, their expertise in managing chronic illnesses and providing preventive services such as flu shots, blood pressure screenings, and cholesterol screenings can reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases and other illnesses.

Medication management

More than half of Americans take at least one prescription drug. On average, though, people take four different medications. A primary care doctor can help you manage all your medications and also make sure they don’t interfere with each other. In many cases, different doctors prescribe different medicines without knowledge of the other prescriptions. A primary care doctor keeps track of all of them to ensure safe and optimal medication management. 

Ready to start a long-lasting relationship with a primary care doctor at Wasatch Peak Family Practice? Or do you want to schedule your next exam with one of our board-certified family physicians? Call Wasatch Peak Family Practice to make an appointment or request one online through this website.