The healthcare system has several levels divided based on services and specializations. The first level is primary care, featuring general practitioners (GPs) and family physicians. These doctors obtain training to deal with a wide range of common health problems. They’re usually your first point of contact with the healthcare system.
Here are the different types of primary doctors that you or your family members may need:
General Practitioner
A general practitioner is a doctor who has completed medical school and has received training in various medical fields. They can provide primary care for a wide range of conditions. GPs are usually the first contact for patients seeking medical care. You should go to your GP if you have any health concerns or need a referral to see a specialist.
Family Physician
Family physicians care for patients of all ages and are often the first contact point for families seeking medical assistance. The difference between a GP and a family physician is that family physicians have additional training in pediatrics. This added knowledge allows them to provide care for children.
Nurse Practitioner
A nurse practitioner is a nurse who has completed additional training in primary care. They provide a wide range of services, including:
- Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
- Prescribing medications
- Treating common illnesses
They can also provide referrals to specialists, if necessary.
Pediatrician
Pediatricians have completed medical school and received training in pediatrics to provide primary care for children. They usually take care of patients up to the age of 18. You should go to a pediatrician if your child is sick or you have any concerns about their health. Pediatricians can treat conditions like:
- Colds and cases of flu
- Ear infections
- Asthma
- Allergies
Obstetrician-Gynecologist
Obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns) have received training in obstetrics and gynecology. They provide primary care for women of all ages, take care of pregnant women, and deliver babies.
You should see an ob-gyn if you have concerns about your reproductive health or if you’re planning to become pregnant. They treat conditions like:
- Menstrual problems
- Infertility
- Breast problems
- Pregnancy and childbirth
Internal Medicine Physician
An internal medicine physician has completed medical school and received training in internal medicine. It’s a branch of medicine dealing with diagnosing and treating adult diseases. You should see an internist if you have a chronic illness or need a referral for a specialist. Internists can treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Asthma
- Arthritis
Geriatrician
You need a geriatrician to manage your health care as you age. Geriatrics is the branch of medicine specializing in diseases and disorders that affect older adults. Essentially, geriatrics is at the opposite end of the spectrum of pediatrics. Geriatricians provide services like:
- Comprehensive medical care
- Preventive care
- Health screening
- Counseling on diet and exercise
- Referrals to specialists
Why You Should See Your Primary Doctor Regularly
You should see your primary doctor regularly, even if you’re feeling healthy. Regular check-ups can help prevent health problems from developing or getting worse. Primary care doctors can also provide early detection and treatment of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Regularly seeing your primary doctor can help you develop a relationship with a healthcare provider who knows your medical history. That can help them give you personalized care, which is especially important as you get older and experience health complications.
If you don’t have a primary care doctor, you may consider an internal or family medicine physician. They are trained to provide comprehensive primary care for adults of all ages. You may also want to consider an obstetrician-gynecologist if you’re a woman or a pediatrician for your children.
Primary Doctors Near You In Bronx, NY
Primary care doctors play an essential role in keeping you healthy. They can provide comprehensive care, preventive care, and early detection and treatment of chronic diseases. If you don’t have a primary care doctor, you should consider a family medicine physician or an internal medicine physician.
You can trust the providers at Starling Diagnostics if you’re looking for trusted primary doctors near you. We have a team of experienced and compassionate physicians who can give you the comprehensive care you deserve. We’re also the leading 3D imaging center in the Bronx! Call us now at (718) 319-1610 to learn about our services. You may also fill out our convenient appointment request form to book a consultation.
We look forward to serving you!
