What is primary care and why is it important?

A lot of people associate going to the doctor with being sick or injured. Really, though, all adults should see a provider regularly—even when they’re healthy.

You’ve probably heard the terms “primary care” and “annual wellness check.” But what do they mean? And are they actually important? (Yes!) Find answers to common questions about primary care, so you can make the best choices for your health.

What is primary care?

Primary care is your first stop when you have a non-life-threatening health need. Typically, you choose a primary care provider, and they serve as your health partner and resource, ideally throughout your life. You can turn to them for regular check-ups, health advice, and support when something feels off.

With primary care, you build a relationship with your provider, so they can help you prevent and treat any health concerns.

Who can I choose as a primary care provider?

When someone asks, “hey, who’s your doctor?”, usually they’re referring to your primary care provider. Primary care providers can diagnose and treat common illnesses and injuries. There are a few types of primary care providers:

• Family medicine providers who treat entire families, including infants and children.
• Internal medicine providers (internists) who usually treat adults only.
• OBGYNs who focus on women’s health. Many women have another primary care provider, in addition to an OBGYN.
• Pediatricians who treat children, from newborns to teenagers.
• Nurse practitioners and physician assistants who offer similar primary care services as doctors.

Because primary care is about your long-term health, it’s important to choose a primary care provider you trust. At LCMC Health, we have a wide selection of providers with different areas of expertise, who all provide primary care.

Why should I see a primary care provider?

There are many reasons to see your primary care provider:

• With one primary care appointment, they give you access to a wide range of services.
• They focus on holistic healthcare, so they can treat a little bit of everything.
• They get to know you and your health, so they can meet your health needs over time.
• They help spot health problems before they become serious.
• If you need specialty care, they can refer you to a specialist.
• They work with you to manage existing conditions by providing routine tests and care.

What can I expect at a primary care visit?

You should schedule a primary care visit, also called a wellness visit, annual exam, or checkup, at least once per year. At your annual visit, your provider will ask questions about your health. They’ll update any changes and order tests as needed. They’ll also listen to your heart and lungs and perform a physical exam.

If you see your primary care provider for a specific health concern, illness, or injury, they’ll look at your symptoms and recommend additional testing or treatment. They may refer you to a specialist, depending on what you need.

At your primary care visit, your provider can:

• Address changes to your health
• Administer vaccines
• Answer your questions about anything health-related
• Complete exams
• Complete or recommend screenings, such as mammograms and colonoscopies
• Help with mental health concerns
• Order tests, such as blood tests or imaging scans
• Prescribe medication
• Refer you to specialists
• Take your vitals, such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and breathing rate

How does my primary care provider work with other providers?

Your primary care provider helps coordinate your care at one location. Think of them like your healthcare control center. You always work with them, but they can refer you to other specialists.

For example, if you need treatment for an issue related to your heart, they might refer you to a cardiologist. Your cardiologist will then communicate with your primary care provider, so they can stay updated on your health.

Find a primary care provider near New Orleans

Are you ready to schedule your primary care appointment? Our LCMC Health providers help you stay on top of your health. Find a provider in your parish, or schedule your appointment online today with your existing provider.