Author: Jason Weimer

The foundation of health is preventive care. Visiting a primary doctor can be an important way to stay healthy. According to Healthcare IT News, only 67% of people aged 25-35 have a primary care physician. Let’s look at some key reasons why you should prioritize regular doctor visits.

Early Intervention

Making time for regular healthcare visits can give you the benefit of early intervention for health conditions. Some health problems can get progressively worse if undetected for a long period of time. There are several health screenings that you’ll receive or that you can request at a regular doctor visit. These screenings can help your primary care physician identify potential risks to your health. Measures can be taken now to prevent problems from developing. If a problem is detected, then early treatment measures can be put into place to ensure the health issue doesn’t progressively get worse.

Expert Advice

When you visit your primary doctor, receiving a diagnosis isn’t the only service they can provide you. They can also provide you with expert advice on how to manage and protect your health. The time you spend with your doctor is valuable since this is the only time you have a health expert’s attention all to yourself. You should take advantage of this great service. It can help you make informed decisions regarding your health and lifestyle.

Maintenance of Existing Health Conditions

If you already have an existing health condition, then it’s vital that you keep up with your primary doctor appointments. Many types of health conditions will progressively get worse if they are left unmonitored. You may not even realize that your health condition is worsening. There are important tests that might need to be conducted to tell if there’s been a change in your condition. For instance, vitamin deficiencies need regular monitoring to ensure that levels are not dipping dangerously.

Reach Health Goals

Another important reason to visit your primary doctor regularly is if you have specific health goals you’re working on. These could include losing weight, gaining weight, getting pregnant, improving cardio health, and more. These types of health goals often need the close monitoring of a primary doctor.

These are just a few reasons why it’s vital to keep up with primary doctor appointments. If you’re looking for a reliable primary care physician in your area, then please contact us today. We are here for your medical needs at Hitchcock Family Medicine.

Regularly visiting your doctor is important for maintaining optimal health. According to the American College of Physicians, a physician who specializes in internal medicine focuses on the treatment of sickness and diseases in adults. This type of doctor is often referred to as an internist or primary care doctor. According to the CDC, the percentage of adults who had a visit with a doctor or other health care professional in the last year is 84.9%. Let’s look at three of the conditions that can be treated through internal medicine.

1. Cardiovascular Problems

Some heart problems can be treated with the help of internal medicine. However, more severe cardio issues will need the expertise of a cardiovascular specialist. Mild or moderate conditions should first be analyzed with your internist. If it’s determined that you need more specialized treatment, a referral can be made to a cardiologist. A primary care doctor can help with the maintenance management of cardio problems that are also being treated by a specialist.

2. Respiratory Illness

Issues that affect your lungs or breathing fall under respiratory issues. Internal medicine can help with these types of problems. Illnesses such as respiratory infections caused by infection, bacteria, or fungus can be treated with prescriptions from your primary care doctor. Conditions such as asthma can also be treated through internal medicine. In our experience, treatments may include medications and breathing exercises.

If a patient has severe respiratory issues or disease, they will likely need a referral to a lung specialist. While working with a lung specialist, the primary doctor can still help make sure the patient stays on top of their treatment plan. For this reason, it’s very important to seek routine appointments with a reputable primary care doctor.

3. Bone Issues

Bone-related issues can also be treated with internal medicine. In our experience, some examples of these conditions include osteoarthritis or osteoporosis. An internist can recommend X-rays or MRI scans to get a better look at your bones. Medications can be prescribed as well. If necessary, you can also be referred to a specialist.

An internist can also help with conditions such as endocrine problems, weight loss, general health, mild skin conditions, and more. If you are looking for a primary care doctor in your area, please contact Hitchcock Family Medicine today. We are here to help you along your health and wellness journey.

According to Healthcare IT News, just 67% of millennials have a primary care physician. Yet, it is an invaluable service. In fact, there are several ways that a family care physician can save your life. From treating personal injuries to helping prevent disease, your physician can do more things than you realize. There are several ways in which they can save your life.

Preventative Care

A family physician will have a complete medical history for you and your family. This means that they’ll keep an eye out for certain things. For example, if your family has a history of heart disease, they’ll help you learn how to eat a heart-healthy diet to prevent cardiovascular problems. If possible, the same applies to helping prevent conditions like cancer and other illnesses.

Personal Injuries

Physicians are great for much more than a checkup or sore throat. A family care physician can provide pain relievers and some treatments for injuries. They can also refer you to have imaging, such as X-rays, or refer you to another doctor who can help.

Continuity of Care

Seeing the same doctor regularly ensures that you’ll have continuous care while accomplishing your goals. This doctor will work with you over several years, if not decades, to ensure you are as healthy as possible. Your doctor will monitor every condition, whether you have weight loss goals or a mental illness. They’ll also have an accurate health record to ensure you are always cared for.

Comprehensive Care

General practitioners provide a wide range of services. This doctor can see patients for common ailments, vaccines, or medical conditions. You may see your general practitioner for a referral to someone else, such as a psychologist, for a mental illness. However, most doctors can also prescribe medicine to help address common conditions, such as depression.

When you receive quality care, it’s life-saving. Depression and other mental illnesses increase the risk of suicide and suicide ideation. Prompt treatment for personal injuries is critical, and you shouldn’t have to wait in an emergency room for hours on end. Prevention is one of the essential components to enjoying a long, healthy life. Contact Hitchcock Family Medicine to schedule an appointment today.

Getting constant headaches and feeling anxious can be related to a concerning case of stress. Most people have a basic understanding of what feeling stressed is or have experienced its symptoms once in their lifetime. However, as common as it is, it’s a considerable mental health issue that affects those with a busy schedule or people with trauma. Stress also has countless misconceptions. Let’s take a look at how you can use your primary care doctor to help identify and overcome your stress.

How to Identify Stress

Stress is a common symptom of living a busy life. Being in control of numerous aspects of your life can feel like a burden and quickly lead you to develop a stress episode. One of the signs of stress is sudden mood changes and the inability to focus on one task at a time. Stressed people often experience headaches, muscular tension, and trouble sleeping, as they might be anxious or too energetic to rest. Lastly, stress can cause damage to your body and weaken your immune system in the long run.

A great way to manage stress is by talking with your primary doctor. Talking about your situation can be cathartic and help you overcome crucial aspects of your stress. Don’t hesitate to trust the people who want to help you. They just may be able to set you up with a long-term mental health professional.

How a Primary Doctor Can Help You

A primary doctor is one of the best health professionals to talk about your mental and physical health situations with. According to WebMD, over 75% of most doctor visits in the U.S. are about stress-related symptoms. Moreover, these professionals understand how to deal with these episodes and treat them with professionalism and care.

Talk with your primary doctor and share your feelings as honestly as you’re able to. They can prescribe medicine to overcome your episode and help you move forward in life. Being vulnerable about your troubles and concerns with a professional that understands how stress can damage your routine can be healthy and promote necessary changes in your life.

Managing your stress will give you countless benefits that can change your life. In turn, you may become the person you’ve always wanted to be. Start recovering from stress today with the help of our team at Hitchcock Family Medicine.

When it’s time to go to the doctor, it is important to feel comfortable and confident that they can help you. Whether you’re looking for a new primary care family doctor or getting special services, you should have some questions ready. Here are a few questions to ask your family doctor.

1. How Long Have You Been Practicing Medicine?

Knowing how long a doctor has been practicing is important in determining the level of experience they have. Ask how long they have been practicing and if they’re certified. This information will also give you an idea of the type of treatments they’re familiar with and if they have updated their skills.

2. Do You Have Any Specialties?

Your primary care physician could have a specialty, such as geriatrics or pediatrics. If you’re looking for special services, such as prenatal care or a specialty exam, you should ask if the doctor has any specialties. It’ll help you determine whether they’re the right person for the job.

3. Are You Accepting New Patients?

When picking a new family doctor, you should also find out if they’re accepting new patients. Some doctors may have a full patient load and won’t be able to take on new patients. Make sure you ask this question at the start of your journey to find a doctor so that you don’t waste any time if it turns out they aren’t accepting new patients.

4. What Are Your Office Hours?

It’s important to know the office hours of your physician before making an appointment. You want to ensure their hours are compatible with your schedule so you can easily get an appointment. If the doctor’s office is closed on certain days, find out if there are any other options for getting help in case of an emergency.

5. Do You Offer Telemedicine?

Telemedicine is becoming widely available to patients. Ask your doctor if they offer telemedicine visits, which can be a convenient way to get medical care without having to leave your home. Some doctors may also offer online access to medical records, lab results, and appointment scheduling.

Just 67% of millennials have a primary care physician, compared with 85% of baby boomers, according to First Stop Health. Taking the time to ask questions and being informed is key when choosing a new family doctor. Doing so will help you get the best care for your medical needs. Contact our local office at Hitchcock Family Medicine for a consultation today.

A  family care doctor can greatly assist your family. They can provide essential medical care, help you coordinate ongoing treatments, and serve as important support throughout your life. According to Healthcare IT News, however, less than 68% of Millennials have a primary care physician. Understanding why having a family care doctor is important for all ages and the benefits they provide is crucial.

Receive Quality Health Care

Having a family care doctor can help ensure that you receive quality healthcare throughout your life. Family care doctors are trained to provide various services, from physical examinations and screenings to immunizations and check-ups. They can help diagnose illnesses, recommend treatments and medications, and guide you on preventive health measures.

Supply Ongoing Care for Long-Term Conditions

Family care doctors are also well-equipped to provide ongoing medical care for chronic conditions or illnesses that require continual monitoring and treatment. They can work with you to develop a comprehensive plan of care, which may include lifestyle modifications, continued appointments, medications, and other treatments.

Provide Supportive Care

Family care doctors can also provide emotional and mental support. They understand the unique needs of their patients and work to build a trust-based relationship so that you feel comfortable discussing any concerns or fears about your health. This can be especially important during challenging times when it’s difficult to make medical decisions on your own.

Help You Stay on Track

Many conditions can be managed more effectively when you have a family care doctor who can help coordinate treatments and monitor your progress. They can keep track of the medications you take, the tests and screenings you’ve had, and any other health changes that occur over time. This helps to ensure that your health is being monitored regularly so that any problems can be diagnosed and treated promptly. For instance, if you are pre-diabetic, your doctor can work with you to help reduce your risk of diabetes.

Having a family care doctor is an important part of maintaining good health. They provide comprehensive medical care, ongoing coordinated treatments, and emotional support throughout life. If you don’t currently have one, consider talking to your healthcare provider about finding the right family care doctor for you and your family. If you need more advice on healthcare options, contact Hitchcock Family Medicine today, and we’d be happy to help you learn more

A primary care physician is the first point of contact when people want to receive care. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, over 50% of doctor office appointments are made with primary doctors.

Primary care physicians take it upon themselves to get to know patients in person, which helps them attend to their needs. If you visit a primary care doctor, you should feel at ease discussing your care and health concerns because your overall well-being depends on it. With that said, check out some essential services primary care physicians offer.

1. Preventive Care

Primary doctors can offer preventive care to their patients, which typically includes check-ups and screenings to prevent them from contracting illnesses. Primary care physicians can also provide health promotion education or counseling to help patients care for themselves.

2. Disease Diagnosis

If a patient visits a hospital with specific symptoms, a primary care doctor diagnoses what they’re suffering from. They can do this through physical exams and by sending the patient to the laboratory for blood tests and toxicology reports looking for diseases or illnesses.

3. Ongoing Care for Common Illnesses

A primary care doctor can continue to treat a patient for common conditions once diagnosed. Common illnesses or injuries include allergies, burns, colds, flu, constipation, diarrhea, headaches, sore throat, and stomach aches. Seeing your primary care physician will reduce the time you have to wait to get seen, as they’ll be able to prioritize you. This way, you can get the treatment and medication you need faster.

4. Care for Chronic Illnesses

Primary doctors work alongside disease specialists such as cardiologists and oncologists when treating severe illnesses or chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s, cancer, diabetes, epilepsy, and heart disease. Specialists keep primary care physicians updated on a patient’s condition so that the primary care physician determines how to provide care.

5. Annual Check-Ups

Primary care doctors can also perform annual check-ups on individuals. Yearly check-ups are not only for people with a medical history. They’re recommended for everyone because they can help detect underlying conditions before they potentially progress. Primary care doctors check for BMI (body mass index), blood pressure, heart rate, and more in annual appointments. A primary care physician can also check for conditions like diabetes, breast cancer, and prostate cancer in patients with a medical history.

Primary doctors are the first stop for medical care. Therefore, if you’re feeling unwell, contact Hitchcock Family Medicine today to get started with an appointment.

When you find yourself having to choose a doctor or switch doctors, you might come across some new terms that describe various types of medical practitioners that you may not be familiar with. According to Intend Health Strategies, adults living in the U.S. have 19% lower odds of prematurely dying if they have a primary care provider compared to those who only seek medical specialists for their care. This is why you must do a little research before you make a decisive stance on which doctor you choose.

Which Is Better: Internal Medicine or Family Medicine?

Family medicine practitioners and internal medicine practitioners—referred to as internists—both practice as physicians. The main difference between them is that internal medicine physicians address medical conditions in adults while family medicine physicians specialize in treating patients regardless of their ages. To determine which type of physician is suitable for you, you will first consider these factors

Education

Both internal doctors and family doctors are required to complete their medical school studies before they commence their respective residencies. Based on their specialty, they then complete their training in outpatient and inpatient medical care. Family medicine physicians may get trained on health concerning women while internal medicine physicians might focus their training on cardiology or gynecology. For internists, their education consists of specialized medical care which is not the focus of the education of family doctors. Family doctors are more suitable for when you are on the look for a new doctor for your children.

Residency

Another thing to consider is the post-graduate training of both family doctors and internal doctors. Residency is the training medical students receive as they shadow a licensed doctor in a medical care facility. Completing their respective residencies shows the willingness of family doctors and internal doctors to serve you to the best of their abilities and solve any medical condition you may be ailing from.

Experience

Though it’s important on its own, education is not a certified guarantee that a person is a good doctor. You need to first verify how long your doctor has been a medical practitioner and how effective they are when treating patients.

Regardless of who you choose, both internal and family doctors offer medical services for the benefit of you as the person seeking health treatment. You must look into more information on which type of doctor you choose to ensure you get the right treatment and medication. Visit a medical facility today to inquire more about this and be given the direction forward.

Many of us feel like we’re not getting what we need to out of conventional medicine, at least not in full. Conventional medicine may satisfy some of your needs, but not all of them. According to the CDC, while about 84.9% of all adults have seen a doctor or other healthcare professionals, lots of people report feeling unheard by their doctors or dissatisfied in some way. Some of them have found a solution not simply by finding a better conventional doctor, but also by exploring integrative medicine. Integrative medicine can be a bit confusing to navigate. For that reason, let’s explore exactly what integrative medicine covers, and what it can do for you.

What Is Integrative Medicine?

There are two main types of medicine. One is defined as conventional medicine, which is traditional western medicine. It includes everything from surgery to traditional medications, as well as typically prescribed lifestyle changes (like weight loss). Then there is complementary medicine, which is usually non-western, including meditation, yoga, chiropractic therapy, and beyond. While some conventional doctors do not agree with complementary medicine, many believe in the healing properties of alternative treatments, as long as they are used alongside conventional treatments. That’s where we come to integrative medicine.

When a provider offers integrative medicine, they are essentially integrating complementary medicine into conventional medicine. This can come from a single conventional doctor who also offers complementary techniques; or this could come from a team of healthcare providers, some of which practice conventional medicine while others practice complementary medicine. You may see a conventional doctor for surgery or conventional medication, and be referred to an acupuncturist for your other needs.

Who Uses Integrative Medicine?

The great thing about integrative medicine is that you can get what you need out of conventional medicine, while still exploring other options seen in complementary medicine. People seek integrative medicine for a variety of different ailments, including asthma, diabetes, chronic pain, nausea, sciatica, and much more.

Mental illnesses are also often treated with integrative medicine. You may seek a conventional doctor to prescribe antidepressants, but also seek a massage therapist to help you through the aches and pains that come with your depression. When seeking an integrative approach, you don’t have to choose between one or the other.

You’ll want to make sure that you choose an individual or team with the right approach, but they do exist!

Choosing a primary physician can be a daunting and challenging task. There are many things to consider before you settle on the person who will be responsible for your primary care. Here are seven tips to help make the process easier.

1. Make a List of Qualities You Require in a Doctor

The most important thing to remember is that your primary doctor will be responsible for all of your routine checkups and tests. Therefore, both their office and bedside manner must be acceptable to you. If you’re uncomfortable with their policies, regulations, or staff members, look elsewhere.

2. Consider the Location of the Office

Another thing to consider is where your new primary doctor’s office will be located in relation to your home or work. Some people are lucky enough to have several offices at their disposal, while others may need to travel a little bit farther.

3. Find Out if They Accept Your Insurance

This is one of the most important things to consider before making your decision. You don’t want to start this new relationship off on the wrong foot by making an appointment and later finding out that they’re not in-network with your insurance company.

4. Check Their Availability

This is especially important if you’re a very busy person. Please find out how many days of the week and at what time they are open. If they’re not available when you need them to be, then it might be best to look elsewhere.

5. Do Your Homework

When you find a few potential candidates, it’s crucial to do your homework and find out as much about them as possible. Look at their background, education, qualifications, and any other relevant information that might be available.

6. Make an Appointment With Your Final Candidate(s)

After you’ve done your research, contact the people on your list of potential candidates and ask if they can take you on as a patient. If you’re looking for your first primary doctor, this is the best way to find out if they’ll be a good fit for you.

7. Ask Your Friends and Family for Recommendations

This is the easiest way to find a new primary doctor. If you have friends or family members who are already patients of someone, this is an excellent way to find out if they’d recommend them.

According to Primarycareprogress.org, adults in the country who have a general practitioner had a 19% lower risk of dying prematurely than those who just see specialists for their healthcare. So it’s not just important to find someone you trust and like, but also someone who has your well-being in mind. Looking for a primary doctor who has your best interests? Call Hitchcock Family Medicine today.