Empowering Health Through Primary Care
National Primary Care Week
10/6/2023
National Primary Care
Week, typically held in the third week of October, serves as a reminder of the
central role that primary care plays in maintaining and improving our health. Primary care, sometimes referred
to as family medicine, is comprised of caregivers who see patients for wellness
exams and preventive health, while also addressing acute and chronic
illness. They see patients of all ages and include pediatrics and internal
medicine.
Noel Deep, MD,
Primary Care Provider and Chief Medical Officer at Aspirus Langlade Hospital,
reviewed an article
for MDEdge Internal Medicine, published by the Journal of the American Medical
Association (JAMA) that shed light on the crucial role that primary care plays
in postoperative health outcomes.
The researchers
concluded that primary care may act as a protective factor against
postoperative morbidity and mortality. This protective effect could be
attributed to various factors, including the early identification and
management of comorbidities, preoperative medical optimization, timely
diagnosis of surgical conditions, and the promotion of healthier lifestyle
choices.
Dr. Deep applauded the
study's findings. He emphasized the significance of having data that supports
the importance of regular primary care visits, particularly for older adults.
He states, "as
primary care practitioners, we serve as the bedrock of healthcare. Our focus is
on building relationships with our patients, understanding their unique needs,
and providing holistic care. This connection is essential for delivering personalized
and effective healthcare."
Dr. Deep has been
advising his patients, especially older adults, about the benefits of
maintaining routine follow-up visits with their primary care physicians for
health screenings and the management of chronic conditions.
"A strong
patient-provider relationship goes beyond medical records. It's about
understanding a patient's life, preferences, and concerns. This knowledge
enables us to offer tailored solutions and support their overall
well-being," elaborates Dr. Deep.
When selecting a
primary care provider, many individuals prioritize the comfort and rapport they
feel with their healthcare professional. Patients who have a trusted primary
care provider are more likely to receive preventive care and early
interventions, leading to improved health outcomes.
To assist individuals
in finding the ideal primary care provider for their needs, Aspirus offers
support through the Aspirus Welcome Center, which can be reached at
833.811.4176.
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