Primary care is an essential component of the healthcare system. It is the first level of care people receive after an emergency room visit, and it provides comprehensive, coordinated health services for patients with common illnesses and injuries. Primary care physicians (PCPs) such as Mrs. Katherine G EPPS provide a broad range of family medicine and internal medicine services. Your provider sees patients for routine physical exams, manages chronic conditions and other health problems, and refers patients to specialists.

Below are services included in primary care:

Preventive medicine: Primary care doctors often work in collaboration with other healthcare experts to help people make healthy lifestyle choices, such as quitting drinking alcohol or smoking. Primary care doctors also encourage proper nutrition and exercise, essential for overall health.

Screening tests: These tests check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other factors associated with heart disease or cancer. Most primary care doctors will order a screening test if you are experiencing shortness of breath or chest pain. Such symptoms could indicate a heart attack or other serious condition requiring immediate attention.

Treatment for common conditions: Most conditions can be treated by primary care doctors without hospitalization or surgery. Common conditions requiring treatment include high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus (type 2 diabetes), coronary artery disease (CAD), and asthma.

IV infusion therapy: IV infusion therapy and IV medication administration are included in primary care. IV infusion therapy involves providing medication to patients who have trouble swallowing or are unable to take medications by mouth. IV medication is given via a catheter inserted into a vein or artery. An intravenous line is attached to the catheter, and medications can be administered through this line directly into the bloodstream.

Wart removal: Warts are caused by a virus and are non-cancerous. They can be removed by freezing, laser treatment, or surgical removal. Warts can be painful and cause cosmetic problems for some people. They can also spread to other parts of the body and sometimes lead to serious health complications. If you have warts, your primary care physician can help.

Mental health treatments: If you are experiencing mental health issues, your primary care doctor is an excellent place to start. They can prescribe medications, provide therapy sessions, and help you manage your emotional well-being. This can be a lifesaver if you suffer from depression or anxiety disorder.

Sports physicals: Sports physicals are a great way to start your work with a primary care physician. The sports physical is designed to screen for sports-related injuries and allow you to learn about your body’s health. You can also use this as an opportunity to talk about any concerns you may have about your health or ask any questions about what you should expect from your doctor’s visits.

Primary care providers can prevent most diseases by providing vaccinations and screenings, education about lifestyle changes, and treating acute illnesses through early diagnosis and treatment. They also treat chronic health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure through a more holistic approach to care, educating patients about how they can best manage their illnesses. For quality primary care services, contact Grace Vitale Wellness.

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