Your First Line of Defense: Why You Need a Primary Care Provider

Feb 28, 2025

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By Sarah Johnson, MBA, Director of Marketing, Strategy & Communications, William Newton Hospital

Do you only go to the doctor when you’re sick? You are not alone. It is estimated that more than 60 percent of Americans only seek medical care when they are ill. Whatever your reason for avoiding the doctor's office – cost, time off work, fear of discovering you have a serious illness, fear of being around other sick people, or just not finding a provider you trust – delays can lead to poor health outcomes.

Establishing care with a primary care provider (PCP) is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health and well-being. PCPs can include doctors (MDs or DOs), physician assistants (PAs), or advanced practice providers (APRNs).

Here are some things a PCP can do for you (that WebMD or ChatGPT can’t):

Prevention and Wellness

PCPs focus on preventative care. They can help you stay healthy by offering routine check-ups, screenings (such as cancer or cholesterol), and vaccinations. This proactive approach can catch potential health issues early – when they're easier to treat.

Your PCP gets to know you – your medical history, lifestyle, and family history. This allows them to provide personalized advice and create a health plan tailored to your specific needs. This individualized approach extends to guidance on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and other lifestyle factors to fit your health profile.

Managing Chronic Conditions

If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma, a PCP provides consistent care and helps you manage your condition effectively. If needed, they will coordinate with other healthcare specialists. Regular check-ups lead to early intervention. Your PCP can monitor your condition and prevent complications.

Navigating the Healthcare System

Let’s be real. Who hasn’t been frustrated with the healthcare system at some point? It helps when you’ve established care with a PCP, who can act as your central point of contact for all your healthcare needs. They can help you understand complex medical information and coordinate your care across different providers.

If we’re still being real, healthcare can be expensive. With better management of your overall health, you save money on healthcare costs in the long run. A visit to the doctor’s office is much more cost-effective than a trip to the emergency room or a hospital stay (and most likely takes less time).

PCPs can also help you navigate insurance and find affordable care options.

Finding a PCP

Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. If you have specialists you see, they may also be able to recommend a good PCP.

Also, be sure to check with your health insurance provider. Nearly all primary care providers are in-network with Original Medicare, but some commercial or Medicare Advantage plans will have a list of in-network PCPs. If there isn’t an in-network provider in your community, be sure to consider how far you will have to travel to find one. Though you may pay out-of-network rates, you could save travel expenses and time.

How to Establish Care

The process for establishing care with a PCP can vary slightly depending on your insurance, location, and the specific healthcare system. It can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. So, establish care while you’re well. Don’t wait until you get sick.

Once you’ve identified a potential PCP, the best method is to call the office and inquire about the new patient process. Typically, you will complete new patient paperwork before your first appointment. This will include your medical history, insurance information, and demographic details. Completing these forms in advance can save time at your appointment.

When it comes to your health, your primary care provider is your first line of defense. Taking steps to build a relationship with a trusted physician or advanced practice provider is an investment in your health, and can save you time, money, and frustration. If you don't already have one, we encourage you to find a partner to support your healthcare journey.

Editorial Notes: This article was submitted for the "Weekend Check-Up," a regular health column in the Cowley CourierTraveler penned by employees and friends of William Newton Hospital.