If you’re looking for a new physician, you might be uncertain about determining which type of professional will best meet your needs. Unless you have a specific referral or preexisting condition, it's generally best to seek treatment from a general, whole-body perspective. For this broader approach, a family doctor is an ideal choice. They can assist you with virtually all of your medical concerns and refer you to more specialized practitioners when necessary. Here’s a closer look at how a general physician will aid your health.

What Is a Family Doctor?

Family doctors treat patients of all ages, from children to adults. Think of them as both a pediatrician and an internal medicine provider in one. They provide a comprehensive scope of medical services, including preventive care, women’s health, treatment for both chronic and acute illnesses, and even management of end-of-life care. 

They are specialists of the whole body instead of a single body part. However, if you need more comprehensive care for a condition, they will direct you to a specialist who can perform a thorough evaluation and treatment. 

What Do They Do?

Your family practitioner can perform general physicals and order routine blood work. They can immunize you, perform screenings, assess your risk for developing certain conditions based on your family history, evaluate your symptoms, and provide diagnosis and treatment. 

They can also initiate a more thorough evaluation based on their findings. For example, if they discover a lump during a women’s wellness exam, they'll order a mammogram for further investigation. From a pesky cold to more serious concerns, they're the first stop on your wellness journey.

They also work in tandem with your specialist doctors. If you are dealing with a chronic health concern like heart disease, they'll share the results of your exams with your cardiologist and coordinate with them if there are any specific changes necessary to your care plan. These doctors may have their own practices, work in urgent care centers, or offer their services in hospitals or public health settings.

If you're seeking a reliable family doctor, turn to Palladium Primary Care in High Point, NC. Proudly serving patients throughout Guilford, Randolph, Alamance, Forsyth, and Davidson counties since 2008, Dr. George Osei-Bonsu and Ashley Vanstory, PA, provide family-oriented care you can trust. Visit them online for more information about the medical clinic or call (336) 841-8500 to schedule an appointment.