Choosing a doctor working in a family practice offers patients several advantages in both treatment of health issues and proactive or preventative health care and management.
A family doctor may also be known as a primary care physician or a general doctor. All terms show that the family practice professional is trained to work with patients of all ages for both general as well as specific health care services.
In most cases, children will be seen by pediatricians until their teen years. However, some families may choose to transition a child to a family doctor earlier if there are no health issues for the child and if the family thinks this is the best option. Keep in mind that a family doctor will see patients of all ages from kids to seniors, which is an advantage all on its own.
Greater Patient Understanding
When using a family practice, each patient is seen by a doctor who is a familiar person to the patient. This allows the doctor to have a better understanding of the family health history, current health issues, and past care. With this information, earlier detection of changes in health status can be noted by the doctor and then a follow up with a specialist can be discussed if required.
Patient Trust
Going to the doctor may mean having to discuss difficult topics with a physician. The comfort level in talking to a doctor that is trusted leads to more complete information provided by the patient.
This is essential for an early and correct diagnosis. This is also important if the family doctor makes a referral as the patient is more confident in trusting a referral to another doctor by someone they trust.
A primary care doctor is a great asset to the care of everyone in the family. These professionals can complete annual visits, handle non-emergency medical treatments and work as an essential part of the patient’s health care team if there are acute or chronic health issues.
