What Is a Primary Care Physician

A primary care physician is the first doctor you contact when you have a health concern. Primary care physicians are often referred to as PCPs. PCPs undertake a variety of roles in medical care, including patient education, preventive care, treatment of common illnesses, management of chronic conditions, early detection of illnesses, and specialist referrals. Like other physicians, PCPs are extensively educated, completing four years of medical school, three or more years of residency, and additional years of training in a primary medical specialty. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by a professional governing body. They maintain this certification throughout their career with supplemental training and testing.

What Does a Primary Care Physician Do?

A primary care physician acts as the point of entry to our medical system. PCPs are who you turn to when you have a minor illness, want a prescription filled, have questions about a health concern, or need assistance in handling a chronic condition. PCPs often develop a relationship with their patients, compiling medical histories, conducting physical exams, ordering tests, prescribing medications, and arranging for specialized medical care. Most PCPs work in private-office settings. Because PCPs are primary providers, you can schedule a visit without a referral.

What Types of Primary Care Physicians Are There?

Primary care physicians are trained in one or more of the following medical specialties:

• General practice

• Family practice

• Internal medicine

• Pediatrics

• Geriatrics

• Obstetrics

• Gynecology

Primary medical care is sometimes provided by nurse practitioners or physician assistants rather than medical doctors.

When Should You See a Primary Care Physician?

Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is an important step in managing your health. Whenever you develop a medical concern, you’ll have a resource ready to assist you in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating your condition. Reasons for scheduling a PCP visit include:

• Treating a common illness, including colds, stomach bugs, ear infections, and other communicable conditions

• Scheduling physical exams and checkups

• Receiving preventive care, such as vaccines, mammograms, and colonoscopies

• Assistance in managing chronic conditions, including diabetes, asthma, arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and high blood pressure

• Addressing conditions specific to men’s or women’s health

• Referrals to specialists

What Can I Expect at My Visit to the Primary Care Physician?

Your first appointment with a primary care physician will lay the foundation for future visits. Your PCP will ask about your symptoms, record your family history, and perform a physical exam. As part of the exam, he or she will document your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and glucose (blood sugar) levels. The PCP will also ask you lifestyle questions, for example, whether you smoke, what your diet is like, and how much alcohol you consume. He or she may want to schedule you for preventive care or to update your vaccination record. With this information, your PCP will assess the major risks to your health, the appropriate steps to take, and what resources you require to manage a current condition or to prevent a future illness. If you have health questions, are experiencing symptoms, or have a family medical history that concerns you, the Baptist Health primary care team is first in line to help you. For more information, find a Baptist Health Primary Care Provider or contact your Baptist Health Primary Care Provider.