Finding the Right Primary Care Doctor for You

A primary care physician (PCP) is usually the first person you contact when you have a health concern. That is why choosing the right PCP is an important step in taking care of your health. The good news is that AHN can guide you in finding the right PCP for you and your family.

Your health starts with primary care

Many people think they only need to see their PCP when they are sick. But primary care is about much more than treating illness. Your PCP helps you stay healthy and supports your overall well-being.

“Primary care is a home base for patients,” says Jessica Kelly, DO, a family medicine physician with AHN Primary Care. “We help coordinate care, answer questions, and guide patients through different stages of life and health.”

Some PCPs are Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs), while others are Medical Doctors (MDs). Both are fully trained physicians who diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and provide preventive care. DOs also receive additional training focused on how best to consider all parts of a person during treatment, including the body, mind, and emotions.

Why annual checkups matter

Even if you feel healthy, you should see your PCP at least once a year. During your visit, your doctor will complete a physical exam and may suggest screenings, vaccines, and lab work based on your age, health history, and any risk factors. Most health insurance plans cover annual preventive exams at no out-of-pocket cost to you.

“Staying on top of screenings and blood work can help catch conditions earlier,” says Dr. Kelly. “Sometimes we can even find issues before they become more serious.”

Health concerns your PCP can treat

Primary care should be your first stop for most health concerns. Your PCP can help you figure out what is causing your symptoms and create a personal treatment plan for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Common colds and flu
• Chronic illnesses including asthma, diabetes, or high blood pressure
• Minor injuries and muscle pain
• Mental health concerns

If you need more advanced care, your PCP can refer you to a specialist. They can also explain test results, answer questions, and help make sure you understand your care.

“Sometimes patients leave specialist appointments with a lot of information,” says Dr. Kelly. “It helps to have another provider who can answer questions and help guide them through the process.”

Understanding primary care specialties

There are different types of doctors who provide primary care. At AHN, you can choose from several primary care specialties, including:

• Pediatrics provides comprehensive care to children from birth through age 21.
• Family medicine provides comprehensive care to individuals of all ages and can treat entire families.
• Internal medicine focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of illnesses in adults.
• Geriatrics manages the unique health needs of older adults.

Whether you’re scheduling your first physical exam in years or looking for a new doctor, establishing care with a PCP can help you stay healthy now and in the future. Seeing the same PCP over time helps them learn your medical history, understand your health goals, and spot problems earlier.

Find your best fit at AHN

Primary care doctors at AHN offer compassionate, personalized care to support your health at every stage. To find a PCP near you, call 412-362-8677, or use the Find Care tool to search based on location, specialty, or personal preferences.