When It's Time to Find a Doctor

It’s important to build a relationship with your primary care physician

People tend to seek out a doctor at specific points in life—but if you don’t have a relationship with a primary physician yet, any time is the right time.

Primary care physicians (see the different types, right) help some people stay well and others manage health conditions. They oversee all the things that affect your health physically, emotionally, mentally and environmentally. “Preventing problems is the key to a long, healthy, good-quality life,” says Robert Budinetz, M.D., a family medicine physician with Lehigh Valley Health Network. “For that, you need someone to help captain your health ship.”

“We get to know you as a whole person,” says Michael Goldner, D.O., an internist with the health network. “For example, your appointment may be for diabetes, but because we know what’s going on in your life, we can connect your uncontrolled blood sugars to a recent visit from the grandchildren that resulted in noncompliance with your diet.”

That’s why primary care physicians encourage you to talk openly about any and all concerns. “As you go through the natural progressions of life,” Goldner says, “your primary physician gains an understanding of who you are, what’s normal for you, and how you respond to life’s ups and downs.”

At certain stages, a primary doctor is especially important. Besides assessing your overall health and well-being, here’s how your doctor can help at these points:

Starting high school or college—A primary doctor might ask a high school athlete coming in for a sports physical about things like smoking and wearing a seat belt. Drugs, drinking and safe sex are common topics during a college physical.

Getting a first job—With a young adult who needs an employment physical, the doctor would likely talk about setting healthy eating and exercise habits and learning to manage stress.

Relocating—During this stressful time, it’s important not to delay finding a primary physician in the new location who can help the whole family stay healthy and feel settled.

Having a baby—When children enter your life, they too need a primary doctor—either a pediatrician or your family medicine physician.

Facing health risks in midlife—Your father just had a heart attack and you’re worried about what the future holds for you. Your primary doctor can assess your personal and family health history and take measures to keep you healthy.

Passing menopause—If a gynecologist has been your primary doctor for years, now is the time to consider adding a family or internal medicine physician to address issues like heart health.

Growing elderly—A geriatrician may be valuable in helping you manage multiple health challenges, track medications and make future care plans.

Whatever your reasons or stage in life, the key is to find a primary doctor you like. “You need to feel comfortable talking to this person about your health and your life,” Goldner says. “Once you find the right fit, you can work together as real health partners.”

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Published from Healthy You Magazine, January February 2010

This page last updated 3/30/10 03:48 PM