Primary Care Importance: Taking Chances With Your Health

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Few of us would deliberately go out of our way to put our health at risk, but millions of Americans are doing just that.

This conversation starts with a simple question. Do you have a doctor?

KDKA's John Shumway is here with the hard numbers.

For many, urgent care and hospital emergencies have replaced the family doctor, which carries risks.

Deciding not to have a primary care physician carries medical risks for people who choose this approach.

Recent data shows that 25% of all Americans do not have PCP and for those under 40, 50% do not.

Primary care is relational care. This is where magic, strength and power come from," said the vice president of the Institute of Primary Care, Dr. AHN. said Amy Crawford-Faucher.

"When you're alone, you don't have a mother making these appointments for you. And you say, why do I need this? Why do I need this?" asked Dr. Crawford-Foucher.

As a result, people are dependent on urgent care.

"Emergency rooms should never play that role. You know, they're great for sprained joints," said Dr. Crawford Faucher.

For many, the COVID-19 pandemic has been a wake-up call.

"It's like, where do I go? If you don't already have it, who am I going to call if things go wrong? It's very scary and very inefficient for people. You end up standing in line like in the ER. And. when the best treatments are the best, most effective treatment is the one you already know is a trusted doctor." dr.

Dr. Crawford-Faucher says a primary care doctor knows your history and can spot problems, even if you only see them occasionally. They can solve problems over the phone or virtually.

There is a gender gap among people without a PCP, as women are more likely to become doctors than men.

© CBS Pittsburgh The Importance of Primary Health Care (Part 2) 2:36

In addition to the health benefits, there are also money-saving reasons why becoming a doctor is in your best interest.

As with all medications, Dr. Crawford-Faucher says the sooner a problem is found, the better for your health, and it can usually be managed without even going to the office.

"We care a lot virtually. We pay a lot of attention to texts. Because if you're healthy and you have a healthy lifestyle and you have problems, you can come see me. I should probably see you once or twice a year," said Dr. Crawford - Faucher.

He says that COVID-19 has really changed a lot as it took telehealth from a futuristic concept to everyday medicine and greatly streamlined patient schedules.

Ultimately, she says, the most critical part is building a good relationship between you and your doctor.

If you don't see someone you feel comfortable with, find someone else, but don't think your need is urgent.

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