A cough that won’t go away. A swollen ankle. A sore wrist.
These could signal something as benign as a common cold
or a mild sprain or as serious as cancer. It’s nice to know you
can take these concerns to someone you trust—someone
who knows more than just your name.
That person is your primary care physician (PCP). PCPs can
respond to health issues ranging from the straightforward to
the more complicated. And they are already familiar with you
and your health care needs.
Not just any doctor
When you have a health issue, your PCP is the first person
you call. PCPs are doctors who specialize in treating the whole
person. For example, they can:
w
Offer preventive care.
w
Answer medical questions with sound advice that’s specific
to your health.
w
Refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist, surgeon or
oncologist, when you need to see one.
w
Manage care for chronic conditions, such as diabetes or
heart disease.
w
Coordinate your health care, lab tests and medications
among multiple health care providers.
Choosing a PCP
A good relationship with your PCP can have a positive effect
on your health and health care. If you don’t already have a PCP,
make choosing the right one a priority. Look for someone you
feel comfortable with and who you believe you can trust.
Be sure to choose the right doctor for your age and health
history. Often, PCPs are internists, family physicians or
pediatricians.
Family physicians treat people of all ages, from infants to
older adults; pediatricians specialize in children’s health; and
internists focus on health issues common just to adults.
Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American College of Physicians
Chris H., RN
Women’s Health Nurse
Navigator
PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS
Your partners in health
Call a nurse navigator today
If navigating the health care system is getting complicated for you,
I’m a free Aspirus resource, here to help you.
I can:
w
Confidentially discuss your specific health care concerns.
w
Review your health care options.
w
Locate community and Aspirus resources to meet your needs.
w
Match you with a personal medical provider.
w
Assist you in arranging your Aspirus appointments.
You have a story to tell.
I’m here to listen. Contact me today.
Phone: 906.337.5300
Toll-free: 888.236.2483
Live chat:
Email:
WOMEN!
Get free help
WHO YOU GONNA CALL?
Need help finding a primary care
physician? Visit
aspirus.org
and
click “Find a Provider.”
aspirus.org
15
