I started my journey in primary care after a nearly a decade of focusing exclusively on hospital medicine. During my time in the hospital, I saw, firsthand, how neglecting one’s health can allow preventable issues to grow into acute, and sometimes fatal, outcomes. I recognized that quality outpatient care needs a more prominent role in a well-balanced approach to improving a patient’s health. Quality care starts with a focus on prevention via managing stress, prioritizing self-care, and engaging in a healthy routine. Below are five key points in identifying a high-quality primary care doctor, and I use these to guide the way I run my practice:
- Partnership
- Your primary care physician should feel like having a doctor in the family. They know you and the intricacies of your health, risk factors, and your fit within the medical system. They should never have a “one size fits all” approach; they should tailor their care to your personal needs.
- Prevention
- As opposed to reactive care, your primary care physician should focus on preventive care by screening for all major health-related conditions and closely managing chronic conditions. Catching potentially serious conditions early can save your life!
- Guidance
- Your primary care physician should help you navigate an increasingly complex medical system. They are your quarterback when you need to coordinate care among specialists and consultants, and, in many cases, can expedite care through their trusted network of peers.
- Education
- Your primary care physician should educate you in the prevention and treatment of your personal conditions. When patients understand the “why” of a recommendation or treatment, they are much more likely to follow through.
- Availability
- Your primary care physician should be available when you need them. Primary care doctors that focus on smaller patient loads have more time and availability to see the patients they have – whether by phone, telehealth, or in person. Maintaining regular communication with your primary care doctor decreases your chances of being caught off guard with complications that lead to long term problems. Time invested up front can lead to big savings (both time and money) for the patient in the future.
If you haven’t had a wellness exam in the last year, call to schedule an appointment 954-671-0400.
Dr. Amanda Kowalski, DO