Fresno CA Primary Care Clinic Q&A

Primary care is one of the most valuable forms of healthcare as it provides patients with all of their everyday medical needs, from treatments for injuries and illnesses to physical exams and screenings for diseases. Primary care is unique because it is the most inclusive, cost-effective, efficient, fair, and impartial approach to enhancing the physical and mental health of both the individual and the community, as well as the social well-being of the constituents of society.

Most people have a regular doctor they visit for check-ups, prescriptions, and health concerns referred to as “primary care.” The majority of care provided by primary care doctors is focused on managing disease and maintaining health. It is also the first line of defense against illness, and it sets the stage for more specialized care if needed. In other words, primary care is the foundation on which all other areas of medicine are built.

While the fields of internal medicine and primary care share many similarities, there are several important distinctions that set them apart. Internal medicine is a subspecialty of primary care that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and disorders that affect the body, organs, and tissues. These doctors are also trained to manage patients with other medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and asthma. On the other hand, a doctor who specializes in primary care is trained to take care of patients with common, everyday problems, such as colds and flu, skin problems, mild sprains, and back pain.

One of the biggest differences between internal medicine and primary care is the demographic of patients treated; primary care provides care to people of all ages, medical needs, and backgrounds, whereas internal medicine doctors typically focus on treating adult patients, particularly ones with chronic conditions.

Choosing a primary care physician can be an arduous task, but there are certain things to keep in mind that will help to facilitate the process. These include:

• Look for doctors who are in-network
• Consider travel time and location
• Research the doctor’s credentials and experience
• Schedule a consultation

For people who are in generally good health, it is typically recommended to see their primary care physician at least once a year. However, there are additional factors that influence this decision, including:

• Being over the age of 35
• The presence of chronic problems
• Health conditions, including weight, allergies, BMI
• Family medical history

Depending on the aforementioned factors, some patients may be recommended to see their primary care physician more often than once a year, even if they are in generally good health.

Come to Fresno Medical Center for primary care services you can trust. Call us today or book an appointment with our primary care physician, or visit our clinic. We proudly serve the areas of Fresno CA, Burness CA, Locans CA, Lone Star CA, Mayfair CA, Muscatel CA, Oleander CA, and West Park CA.