Establishing a relationship with a family doctor at a primary care clinic has many advantages. Not only will you be able to seek quick and affordable treatment, but you can also take charge of your health with preventive care services. Here are a few of the most common reasons why you should visit a health care practice. 

What Are the Most Common Reasons to Visit a Primary Care Clinic?

1. Simplified Immunization Schedules 

Infants, children, and teens need many types of vaccinations to stay healthy and comply with school admission requirements. Family doctors will help keep track of your child’s needs. Seeing your provider will also allow you to get your annual flu immunization and help you find out if you’re up to date on your immunization schedule. 

2. Lower Care Costs 

When you see your doctor regularly, you help keep chronic conditions in control. Preventive care services for high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes are more affordable than seeing a specialist for advanced treatments. By monitoring illnesses, like asthma, or being proactive about allergies, you can also help avoid unexpected trips to the emergency room or after-hours clinic. 

3. Comprehensive Health Screenings 

Primary care doctors offer a variety of screenings to evaluate your risk for common health problems. Annual exams are an ideal way to check weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Well women exams test for cervical cancer and lumps in the breast, while men can get testicular and prostate checks. Appointments are also an excellent time to ask about colon cancer screenings and the risk of developing issues like depression and diabetes. 

4. Easy Patient-Doctor Communication 

Since you have a relationship with your provider, you won’t have to explain your medical history every time you visit. You can also easily request prescription refills and make short-notice appointments. This type of access reduces stress and decreases the chances that a symptom will be missed. 

5. Better Specialist Referrals 

Should you ever need care from a specialist, like an endocrinologist, obstetrician, or hematologist, your primary care physician will provide you with a personalized referral. Since they know your health history and preferences, they will match you with a doctor that is right for you. They will also have connections in your insurance network, so you can continue to receive quality, affordable treatment. 

Whether you need an annual checkup, women’s health care, or emergency services, trust Fairbanks Clinic, Inc. in Alaska. The customer service-oriented practice, which was established in 1932, serves patients of all ages and allows them to see the same family doctor for each visit. To schedule an appointment at the primary care clinic, call (907) 452-1761. Visit their website to learn more about their services.