W W W. D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA NA . C O M
67
means they are often the first to see depression, early
signs of cancer or chronic disease, and other health
concerns. They ensure patients get the right care, in
the right setting, by the most appropriate provider, and
in a manner consistent with the patient's desires and
values. Primary care professionals are, essentially, the
quarterbacks of healthcare."
Thus, primary care practitioners must possess a wide
breadth of knowledge in many areas.
"Continuity is a key characteristic of primary care, as our
patients usually prefer to consult the same practitioner
for routine check-ups and preventive care, health
education, and each time they experience a new health
problem," said Michael Vlases, MD, Bozeman Health
physician system director of primary care.
Primary care is also cost-effective care. People with a
primary care provider save 33 percent on healthcare
over those who only see specialists, HealthCare.gov
states. Access to primary care helps keep people out of
emergency rooms, where costs can reach four times
as much other outpatient care. Catching and treating
problems early, which happens during annual check-ups,
is also cheaper than treating severe or advanced illness.
And, adults in the U.S. who have a primary care provider
have 19% lower odds of premature death than those
who only see specialists.
"Primary care results in better health outcomes, reduced
health disparities and lower spending on avoidable emergency
department visits and in-hospital care," said Bozeman Health
internal medicine physician and interim chief medical officer
James Loeffelholz, MD. "So, accessing primary care is the best
way to start, and maintain, excellence and continuity in your
health care."
BozemanHealth.org |
Your Medical Home
