Confused by the terms “primary care physician (PCP),” “general practitioner,” and “internist?” That’s because people often use these titles interchangeably. However, you should know the difference between these doctors if you are looking for a new primary care doctor. For example, a general practitioner (GP) and an internist are both primary care physicians, offering general
Read MorePrimary Care
DEFINING PRIMARY CARE: WHAT IS IT?
When they hear the term “primary care,” most people simply associate it with their regular, go-to medical practitioner. Indeed, the short definition of “primary care” is that of health care service provided by a primary care physician (PCP) who is your initial medical point of contact, offering access to the information and resources you need
Read MoreDPC Clinic: A New Way of Healthcare
Let’s face it: Going to a traditional medical practice to see your primary care physician (PCP) is often a bit of a chore. First there’s the hassle of getting an appointment that fits the doctor’s schedule (as opposed to yours). Then, there’s the long wait time spent sitting in the waiting area and examination rooms,
Read MoreWhat Is a DPC Practice & How Can You be Benefited from One?
While choosing a primary care physician (PCP), you may not be aware that you have an alternative to the traditional primary care model, whereby you can pay a flat fee to the doctor in exchange for services rendered. This practice, known as direct primary care (DPC), can save you from copays and provide you with
Read MoreHow Often Should I Visit My Primary Care Physician?
You know that some people have checkups with their primary care physician (PCP) annually, others semiannually, and still others every three or four months. So, you might be wondering how often you should actually schedule an appointment and visit your PCP. The answer to that depends on several factors, including your age, any risk factors
Read MoreA Day In The Life of A Primary Care Physician
Ever wonder what it’s like to be a primary care physician (PCP)? As a patient, you probably think that the sole role of your PCP is to see patients from 9 to 5 every weekday. If so, you might be surprised to know that a PCP often works up to 18 hours daily Monday through
Read MoreEmergency Room vs. Primary Care Physician
When you’re sick or injured, you want prompt and effective medical care. Depending on the severity of your ailment, you have a couple of options – rush to the emergency room (ER) or visit your primary care physician (PCP). Does it matter who you see? After all, ER doctors and PCPs are both trained in
Read MoreCommon Questions to Ask Your PCP
Visiting your primary care physician (PCP) is about more than just getting an annual checkup and (hopefully) a clean bill of health. It is an opportunity to address your specific healthcare concerns and to learn ways to maintain your overall well-being. Communication between you and your doctor is vital, but you may not necessarily know
Read MoreHow Primary Care Physicians Can Make a Difference
A primary care physician (PCP) can be a family medicine doctor, an internal medicine doctor (or “internist,” treating adults), or a pediatrician (treating children). Many people who have a specific underlying condition, such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis, may regard their endocrinologist or neurologist as their primary care doctor – but the problem with this
Read MoreAn In-Depth Look at an Internist’s Job
An internist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating adults. (Contrast this with pediatricians, who treat children.) Internists have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of health conditions, including complex illnesses. They also specialize in disease prevention and promoting health and wellness for patients. Internists are specialists who apply scientific
Read More