Maximize Your Health with a Primary Care Provider

Our health impacts almost every aspect of life – from how we feel each day to what activities we enjoy, if we are able to work and so much more. As a result, it’s important to make health a priority. One key step is to find a primary care provider you can trust.

“A primary care provider is your partner in health. Our goal is to treat patients as if they were our own family members,” explained Victor Farrah, D.O., primary care physician with FirstHealth Family Medicine - Troy. “Regular visits with a primary care provider can be vital to long-term health and wellness. Not only can we help manage chronic illnesses, like diabetes and high blood pressure, but, detect health issues before symptoms arise – when they are most treatable.”

Full Gamut of Services

Primary care providers, which can include doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists, help manage your health through a wide range of services. They may:

• Track and monitor your health history and vital health markers over time

• Ensure your vaccinations are up to date

• Recommend preventive screening tests such as colonoscopies or lung cancer screenings to catch problems early

• Manage chronic illnesses and provide health education

• Coordinate specialty care providers

• Treat acute injuries and illnesses, like infections, minor injuries and more

• Review risk factors related to lifestyle and family medical history

“See your primary care provider at least once a year for a well checkup, even if you have no health concerns,” said Dr. Farrah, who has served as a primary care physician for more than 40 years. “Your primary care provider knows you and is looking at your whole health over time. Getting regular preventive care, such as annual blood tests and other screenings, is one of the best ways to stay healthy.”

Building a Relationship

Getting to know your primary care provider and developing an open, honest relationship is vital to maximizing your medical visits.

“It’s important to find a primary care provider you are comfortable talking with and asking questions of,” explained Dale Patterson, PA-C/APP, a primary care provider with FirstHealth Family Medicine - Biscoe. “Patients need to know that primary care providers have their best interests at heart. They should be able to discuss sensitive issues, such as sexual health, weight concerns or obstacles to health.”

Patterson, who has significant experience training physician assistants, explained that primary care providers discuss the value of positive patient/provider relationships during their education. However, they truly hone their approach to patient care and “soft skills,” such as communication style, during their time with patients.

“Every patient and every provider is different. When looking for a primary care professional, choose someone you connect with and who really listens to you,” advised Patterson. “Also, remember that communication goes both ways. The more information your provider has, the better they can help you.”

Health Care Home

Although convenient care clinics play a vital role in treating acute issues after office hours and medical specialists provide in depth expertise in specific areas of medicine, your primary care provider acts as your health care home.

“I believe that health care is a team sport. We work together with other health professionals to provide patients continuity of care,” said Dr. Farrah. “Primary care providers understand your medical history and approach care from a whole-person perspective.”

For example, primary care providers often serve as an extension of specialty care, providing day-to-day monitoring and treatment close to home. They review all prescription and over-the-counter medications to ensure patient safety and effectiveness. Primary care professionals also provide follow-up care after convenient care visits, emergencies and hospitalizations.

Choosing Your Provider

If you do not currently have a primary care provider, now is the best time to find one. To get started, ask trusted family members or friends for recommendations. Check which providers are covered by your insurance plan and conveniently located. Once you’ve identified a potential provider, call the office to set up an appointment.

“It’s important to not just see a primary care provider regularly, but establish care with someone who shares your philosophy on health,” said Patterson. “Use the initial visit to ask questions and evaluate if your personalities are compatible.”

Dr. Farrah added, “Serving as a primary care physician is so rewarding. I’ve cared for people throughout their lives and often know and involve their family members and caregivers. Developing this level of history and trust is invaluable.”

FirstHealth offers family, primary and internal medicine clinics in Moore, Richmond, Montgomery, Lee, Hoke and Chatham counties. Find a primary care provider or medical specialist at FirstHealth.org/Directory.