Working With Your Primary Care Physician: Understanding The Role Of A Primary Care Physician Is Essential

Your primary care physician is the person who oversees your medical treatment. When you need a routine physical, your primary care physician is responsible for making sure that you are up to date with all recommended appointments. In general, this doctor will prescribe most of your medications and is the first doctor you will see when you have a medical complaint, and their job is to assess your condition. They will make referrals to specialists based on your symptoms, or treat the complaints on their own. Whether you need pain management, a neurologist, or a rheumatologist, your doctor will refer you to a specialist for treatment.

Oversight of Your Medical Care

It's important to always keep your primary care physician aware of any medical treatment you may have had. This means if you are on vacation and go to the emergency room, a record of your visit should be sent to your doctor's office. Once you get home, it will help to call your doctor's office for a follow up appointment. The more information your doctor has about your medical needs, the better they will be able to oversee your treatment.

Referrals to Specialists

While you may be able to schedule an appointment with some specialists without a referral from your doctor's office, it's always a good idea to check in with your primary doctor before you want to see a specialist. When you have the need for a specialist, they are still going to report their findings to your primary care doctor. The more communication you have with your doctor regarding the need for a specialist, the better your treatment will be coordinated. If you are frustrated and trying to get a referral, ask for an appointment to see your primary care doctor and explain your frustration.

Honesty is Always Going to Work Best

Consider that your doctor is there to provide you with quality medical care. If you are using illegal substances or if you have a drinking problem, it's important to let your doctor know. When you are upfront with your doctor, they can assess your current condition more accurately. Your doctor wants you to be as healthy as you can be. Lying about drug use or trying to hide symptoms from your doctor is only going to make you feel physically worse in the end. Be clear about what is going on in your life in order to get the best treatment.

For more information or to get in touch with a primary care physician, visit clinics like Rural Health Services Consortium Inc..