When you want the best health care, it's important to work closely with your primary-care physician. While you may end up going to an urgent-care facility to treat a wound or to an emergency room when your condition is serious, keeping your primary-care physician informed is always necessary. Your primary-care physician is the person who oversees your medical care and provides you with referrals to specialists if you need them. If you have an urgent matter, you should try to see your primary-care physician first. When that isn't possible, getting care is more important than waiting for an appointment.
When You Need to Keep Your Primary-Care Physician in the Loop
If you go to urgent care because of a cough that won't go away, your primary-care physician will need to get the summary of this visit. When you have testing done, or if you are prescribed medications, your doctor will need this information in order to have a clear picture of your medical history. No matter why you go to an urgent-care center, make sure that you provide contact information for your primary-care doctor. Get a copy of the summary of your visit and bring that with you to a follow-up appointment with your doctor.
When There's an Emergency
There are many times when it makes more sense to go to the emergency room than your primary-care physician's office. If you are injured or need help outside of office hours, you may need to go to an emergency room. Once the emergency is treated, you will be given instructions to follow up with your primary-care doctor. This visit benefits your overall health, and you should make sure to schedule a follow-up appointment right away. You will get the chance to describe what happened to your primary-care doctor and come up with a treatment plan if one is necessary.
If You Need a Specialist
Your primary-care physician is responsible for giving you the best medical treatment possible. This means that if your symptoms or needs are outside of the scope of what your PCP can provide, they will refer you to a specialist who can provide you with additional care. When you visit with a specialist, they will provide information regarding your visit and treatment plan with your primary-care provider. This will give your doctor a clear picture on your overall health and keep your medical record complete.
To make an appointment to keep up with your medical care, call the office of a health-care provider such as Snow Creek Medical Center.
Share2 December 2016
