Having a family doctor offers your family the convenience of seeing one doctor for each member's regular checkups. In addition, these physicians usually encourage their patients to contact them for acute illnesses or injuries. However, it is important not to wait until you or a family member is sick to see your doctor because routine visits are crucial for keeping you and your family healthy long-term.
A family doctor is a type of primary care physician who often treats several members of one family. They are typically general practitioners that provide preventive and acute care and health education to people of all ages, including children and older adults. Family doctors provide their patients with a range of healthcare services, including:
They will also provide referrals to specialists if a patient's health problem lies outside their purview.
The frequency with which a person should see their family doctor depends on a combination of factors, including age and medical condition. According to Healthline, the general rule is that those under 50 should see a doctor once every year if healthy. However, adults over 50 should see their doctor at least once a year. In addition, people of all ages with certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes, may need to see their doctor more frequently.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), regular visits with one's primary care doctor are associated with many benefits, including lower infant mortality rates, healthcare costs, and longer lives. Those who see their family doctors regularly benefit from the following:
Noticeable symptoms of a disease or condition often do not manifest until the disease or condition has progressed. A family doctor can ensure patients undergo the recommended screenings to catch a disease early when it is easier to treat. Cancer screenings are a prime example of this. Many cancers are survivable if caught in the early stages.
Family doctors can help prevent disease in two major ways. First, they can provide nutrition and lifestyle advice to patients designed to help prevent health problems. In addition, they can make sure their patient's vaccinations are up-to-date. Being vaccinated helps protect individuals and communities against the spread of harmful communicable diseases.
Routine appointments with a family doctor are also excellent opportunities for health education. Patients are encouraged to express any health concerns they may have noticed since their last appointment. In addition, doctors can advise patients on the best way to manage ongoing conditions.
Here at Encompass Care, we are dedicated to keeping families informed and healthy. We treat patients of all ages with a range of health conditions. We want to do all we can to ensure you and your family thrive and live your best lives.
Request an appointment here: https://encompasscarelv.com or call Encompass Care at (702) 514-4295 for an appointment in our Downey office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Family Doctor in North Las Vegas, NV.
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