Top 10 Things a Primary Doctor Can Do for You

With all the specialists out there, do you really need a family physician or internist to serve as your “primary care” doctor?

Yes, says Chris Morehouse, R.N., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network’s 610-402-CARE.

• They provide a “personal medical home” where your health care begins — a warm, friendly environment where you feel comfortable and known.
• They can be a trusted partner with whom you can share all aspects of your health.
• They give you a broad perspective, guiding you with traditional medicine and also helping you explore complementary therapies to improve your health.
• They coordinate your care, especially if you have more than one condition that requires seeing several specialists.
• They help you understand and establish goals for your care, taking into account your values and helping you weigh important quality-of-life issues.
• They are healers, putting together all the pieces of your life so your “life story” is a healthy one.
• They act as your coach, working on the sidelines to guide you through the decisions you need to make about your health throughout life.
• They have longer hours and are more accessible than most other health care providers.
• They provide comprehensive care for you and your whole family.
• They deliver the best health care “value,” offering a combination of quality care and reasonable cost.

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