Everybody — and every body — needs a primary care provider (PCP). Here’s why.
Your PCP:
Treats you as a whole person. Your PCP considers more than just your symptoms at a given appointment. They provide a wide range of services, from sick care to preventive screenings to managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma. They oversee your health as a whole to ensure all aspects of your well-being — physical, mental and social — are addressed.
Knows your story. Seeing the same person regularly helps your PCP treat you effectively over time, even as you age and your needs and goals change. Your PCP gets to know your medical and family history, preferences and any changes in your health over time. This helps them make informed decisions about your care. And it fosters a personal, trusting relationship.
Encourages you to be proactive. PCPs are pros at preventive care. They help you stay up to date on recommended screenings, such as cancer screenings, cholesterol checks and blood pressure monitoring. They encourage healthy lifestyle changes and educate you on how to prevent future health problems. This proactive approach can help you avoid serious health issues down the line.
Confused about which preventive tests and vaccinations you need? These handy 1-page, 1-minute guides break it down by gender, age and frequency.
Will get you to the right specialist, if needed. If you need to see a specialist, your PCP can guide you in finding the right one, make referrals and coordinate your care between different specialists. Your PCP acts as your healthcare hub, ensuring that all providers involved are aligned and that your treatment plan is seamless.
Can save you money. Primary care visits are generally more affordable than seeing a specialist or going to urgent care or the emergency room. When you establish a relationship with a PCP, you’re more likely to:
Spot and address health concerns early
Manage chronic conditions effectively
Avoid unnecessary or duplicate tests
Stay out of the hospital
Need help finding a PCP?
Schedule a consultation with MNPS’s dedicated Care Navigator Yolonda Powell. Whether you choose a provider at the MNPS Health Care Centers or from your community, Yolonda can help you select a PCP who aligns with your preferences and specific health care needs. In most cases, she can even book your first appointment.