Man’s Guide: Choosing a Primary Care Provider (And Why You Need One)
According to the Mayo Clinic, men over 50 years of age should have a yearly physical exam, and men under 50 should have a physical exam every three to five years. The reason is simple and straightforward. Having a regular physical, also known as a wellness exam, increases the chances of both preventing a disease and detecting it early when treatment is much more effective.
Yet, despite these benefits, men are notorious for not wanting to go to the doctor’s office. Just consider these finding from a recent survey by the Cleveland Clinic.
- 77 percent of men who are married or in a domestic partnership would rather go shopping with their wife or partner than go to the doctor.
- 82 percent of men say they want to stay healthy and live longer for their friends and family, yet only 50 percent participate in preventive care.
- 50 percent of men say they don’t think an annual medical checkup is an important part of taking care of themselves.
Less Excuses, More Action
So why are men so stubborn about not seeing a doctor? It’s a complex question. One reason is that 41 percent of men were told as children that men don’t complain about health issues. As a result, many men view health complaints as a sign of weakness. Other men say that they don’t have enough time. Others are worried they might be diagnosed with a serious disease and treatment.
But, if you’re honest with yourself, none of these are good reasons for not having a regular wellness exam.
At Hometown Hospital, we encourage you see your primary care provider on a regular basis. If do not have a primary care provider, we are here to help. Just call 555-555-1234 for our Physician Referral Service or search our Provider Directory at 555-555-1234.
9 Recommendations to Remember
- Find a Provider Who Meets Your Needs: There are three types of primary care physicians. Family Practice physicians treats patients of all ages. This might be a good choice if you have children and want your entire family to receive care from the same doctor. Internal Medicine physicians typically treat only adults. This is a good choice if you have multiple or chronic medical conditions. General Practice physicians are like Family Practice physicians. They can treat patients of any age or gender.
- Find a Provider You Are Comfortable With: Having a good relationship with your primary care provider is important. After all, you want someone who is trustworthy and a good communicator. That’s why it’s good to meet with the doctor and his or her care team before making a decision.
- Build a Relationship: Establishing an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider offers many benefits. Knowing your family and medical history helps your primary care provider better understand your symptoms and health concerns and perhaps make a more precise diagnosis. By monitoring your health over time, your doctor is better equipped to notice small changes that may be signs of a larger problem.
- Do Not Forget Preventive Exams and Screenings: Be sure to talk to your doctor about scheduling regular health screenings, such as colonoscopy starting at age 45 and prostate tests. After the test results are received, you doctor can follow-up and determine the best next course of action for your health. And if you do need additional medical attention, your provider can coordinate your care and refer you to the right medical specialist or therapist and then actively monitor your health status.
- Be Flexible: 61 percent of men said they would be more likely to have an annual physical if seeing the doctor was more convenient. It that’s the case for you, consider scheduling a telehealth visit, making an appointment outside of work hours or attending a local health screening event.
- Be Honest: The more your primary care provider knows about your health, the better they can take care of you. Yet 20 percent of men say they have not been completely honest with their doctor.
- Do Not Wait Until Something Goes Wrong: Many men wait until the last minute or until something is definitely wrong with their health before seeking for help. That’s not the right move. A good rule of thumb is to seek help if your symptoms last more than two weeks.
- Check Your Insurance: If you have health insurance, make sure your primary care provider is an in-network provider with your plan.
Finally, remember this: A visit to your primary care provider almost always costs less than a visit to an urgent care clinic or the emergency room. Sometimes the cost savings can be hundreds, even thousands of dollars. A good way to think about having a wellness exam is comparing it to routine maintenance on your car. You don’t wait to take your car in for service until it needs a total engine replacement. You change the oil and have routine engine checkups to keep the car running safely and to prevent a major, costly repair. It is the same with your body.
Preventive screenings and regular wellness exams will keep your body healthy and help avoid more costly surgeries and treatments in the future.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic
To learn more about counseling and mental health services, or to schedule an appointment with a primary care provider, visit comhs.org.