If you were to be asked which class of doctors schedule the most office visits, you would probably say gynecologists, obstetricians, or pediatricians. Unfortunately, your answer would be wrong. It is estimated that 1 in every 4 office visits in the US are made to family doctors. This highlights the crucial role played by family physicians in the healthcare profession. Your family medicine physician in Santa Monica provides comprehensive care to patients, unlike other medical specialists who specialize in certain conditions.
Below are the essential roles played by a family physician.
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Family Physicians Oversee Your Preventive Care
A family physician’s primary function is educating you on how to maintain your health and keep disease at bay. Your doctor cares about your mental, physical, and emotional health, and they can help with:
- Anger management techniques
- Fertility testing
- Stress relief
- Weight control and nutritional advice
- Suggesting the best physical exercise regime to enhance your fitness levels
Family Physicians Have Expert Knowledge in Managing Common Complaints
If your child has contracted the flu or you suspect that you have a bladder problem, the right medical personnel to consult is your family physician. He is there to help when your child requires immunization before heading out for camping or being admitted to kindergarten, and can answer your questions when you are concerned about your child’s growth trajectory.
Family Physicians Diagnose Emerging Conditions
Since family physicians take care of your family’s medical needs for a long time, they have a clear picture of your medical history. Your physician is usually the first person you can confide in when facing unusual medical symptoms and situations. His familiarity with your medical situation helps him establish sudden changes that might be precursors to serious health conditions.
Your family doctor is usually the first person to establish early signs of chronic conditions, including cancer. They will order further tests to diagnose accurately, recommend treatment options, and reevaluate your progress before the disease progresses.
Family Physicians Manage Chronic Illness
Family physicians manage degenerative and chronic conditions including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. They provide continuous personalized care during some of the most challenging times in your life by using diagnostic tests to establish your progress and decide which route is best for your treatment plan.
They supervise other health care providers, including medical assistants and nurses, and coordinate rehabilitation, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and social workers. If your condition deteriorates, they refer you to a specialist to get a concentrated focus while still maintaining their intermediary role. This way, you do not have to agonize about having to know about everything on your own. Your doctor at GreenBridge Medical works with a collaborative team of physicians to provide comprehensive care so that all your medical needs are met.
Are you ready to work with a family physician who is passionate and dedicated about preventive medicine to enhance your family’s wellness during the crucial stages of life? Schedule a consultation at GreenBridge Medical to learn how this can work to your advantage.
