Why you should choose a family medicine doctor

A family doctor takes care of the whole family. Family doctors are trained in all areas of medicine so that they care for you as a whole person regardless of age or sex. The care includes physical, mental and emotional health.

They build a caring relationship with you and your family. They listen and document your health history so that they can make good decisions about your health.

Your family doctor is responsible for treating or diagnosing acute and chronic illnesses. They provide you with routine health screening and counsel on lifestyle changes. This helps prevent health issues before they develop. If there is any need for a specialist your family doctor will refer you to a specialist.

Family doctors are trained in all preventive medicine. Avoiding or preventing health problems is better than treating or managing them. Family doctors are trained to treat all areas of care. They are:

· Infant or elder care.

· Chronic conditions such as asthma,  heart disease, and diabetes.

· Mental and behavioral health care.

· Ear, nose, eye, and throat health care.

· Bone and joint care

· Women care and family planning.

· Basic testing such as X-rays, minor surgical procedures, and emergency medical care.

Talk to your family members, and friends and make recommendations to find a tight doctor. Check the list of doctors in your insurance network.

If you get any recommendations, then call their hospitals and get more information about them. Questions to be asked are:

1. What hospital will the doctor use?

2. Are they inviting new patients?

3. What are the hospital hours?

4. Do they have walk-ins after hours?

5. Do they have on-call hours?

6. What is the average wait time for the doctor to get an appointment?

7. How many doctors are in practice?

8. Do they accept your insurance?

9. Do they have labs for testing, If they do not have will they refer to the place in your insurance network?

Many doctors are certified, which means they are trained in certain areas. After medical school, family doctors complete a three-year course that integrates outpatient care. This gives us good exposure to manage diseases in different ages.

Family doctors provide comprehensive care. The primary focus will be on preventive care. You and your family should see a doctor once a year.

At this time your doctor will do a physical exam and screening. They can also give answers to your concern questions.

Questions to ask your doctor:

· Will you give treatment for my chronic health problems? Or should I go to a specialist?

· Instead of a pediatrician, can I see a family doctor for my baby?· Will the family doctor deliver a baby?

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