The Role of Primary Care Physicians in Specialty Care
In this article:
Primary care physicians are usually the first healthcare team members you encounter.
For example, perhaps you’ve had persistent pain in your stomach and recurring heartburn that won’t go away despite treatment with over-the-counter medicines. You schedule an appointment with your primary care physician.
You may not be aware of the dangers of persistent and chronic heartburn, [ but your primary care physician is. They will likely refer you to a gastroenterologist, a physician who specializes in treating disorders of the digestive tract.
Primary care physicians play a critical role in referring patients to specialists for quality treatment. In addition, primary care physicians also conduct regular wellness exams where many health problems and issues are discovered, requiring specialized treatment by other physicians.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at primary care physicians and how they work within the medical system as a whole. We’ll also examine their vital role in ensuring you have the specialized care you need, when you need it.
Looking for Doctors Who Are Taking New Patients In Myrtle Beach and Horry County? Our Primary Care Physicians (PCP) at Conway Medical Center Welcome You
While a PCP is often your first contact with the health care system, it’s often difficult to find one taking new patients. In fact, there’s actually a nationwide shortage of doctors.
With several convenient office locations, from Aynor to Murrells Inlet to Little River, we help make sure you’ll be able to find the care you need, when you need it. We understand a PCP is a vital aspect of your wellness and a link to the specialty care necessary to safeguard your health.
What Does a Primary Care Physician Do?
These physicians are extensively trained to care for patients on many levels, which includes:
But why does someone become a primary care doctor?
We’re sure if you asked each doctor on our staff, you’d get a wide variety of answers. But we’re willing to bet you’ll see one familiar theme throughout:
A dedication to helping people live healthier lives.
Those healthier lives often begin with that first contact with the health care system.
And that first contact is frequently in the primary care doctor’s office.
Role of Primary Care Doctors in Specialty Care
Navigating the health care system–particularly if you have to see several specialists–can be confusing and challenging. Your primary care physician can serve as your guide throughout the process.
Primary care physicians (PCPs) do much more than mere wellness checks and make referrals. Other duties that fall under their scope of care include:
Coordinating Care
PCPs are able to interpret information from different specialists, giving them a clear overall picture of the patient’s health.
Medication Management
PCPs also oversee medications and monitor them to minimize the risk of drug interactions and side effects.
Continuity of Care
Even if you’re seeing a specialist for a certain issue, your PCP will still be monitoring the other aspects of your health. This ensures a continuity of care.
Patient Education
A healthier life begins with patient education. One of the main duties of a PCP is to educate patients about their conditions, any treatment options and how they can take better care of themselves. Through patient education, they are able to become active partners in their healthcare.
How Do Doctors Decide Who to Refer You To?
Primary care physicians have a major role in referring you to specialists who can provide a more detailed level of care. Doctors weigh several factors when determining who to refer you to. Some of these factors may include:
- The doctor’s level of skill/knowledge in this area
- The specialized equipment/technology at the doctor’s practice
In certain cases, patients may need a PCP’s assistance in finding a specialist who is in-network with their health insurance.
Primary Care Physicians: Valued Members of the CMC Healthcare Team
Whether you’re fighting the common cold or you need to seek specialist care, our primary care providers are the best on the Grand Strand. From doctors and physician assistants to nurse practitioners, we take a comprehensive approach to medicine.
We believe in teamwork, which is why we take the time to get to know you, listen to you, and answer all your questions.
With locations throughout Horry County, there’s a primary care office near you. We’d love the opportunity to be your medical home. Scheduling an appointment online is easy!
