Chronic diseases include heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis — and if you think you have one, you’re not alone. About 60% of American adults have a chronic disease. And 40% of Americans have two or more.
If you’re concerned that you might have a chronic disease, you may be wondering what to do next. One option is to start with primary care for an evaluation, and our team at Medical Associates Of North Texas is here to help.
A primary care physician (PCP) is a health care provider responsible for providing routine and preventive care, from physical exams to diagnostic tests. Your PCP is one of the best places to start if you think you might have a chronic disease, and here’s why.
One of the benefits of starting with primary care for an evaluation is that your PCP is likely to have a good understanding of your overall health and medical history. Your chronic disease evaluation includes a physical and medical history, but your relationship with your PCP can help you get a diagnosis faster.
Your doctor also has access to your medical records, which can provide valuable information for the evaluation process. If you don’t have a PCP now, contact us to schedule your first appointment.
When you see your PCP for an evaluation, they do a physical exam, review your medical history, and ask about your symptoms. They may also order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, to help confirm or rule out a diagnosis.
Once your evaluation is complete, your PCP discusses their findings with you. If you’re diagnosed with a chronic disease, it’s time to consider treatment options.
However, it’s also important to understand that your initial evaluation may not always lead to a clear diagnosis or treatment plan. The process of diagnosing and managing chronic diseases can be complex, and it may take some time to find the best course of action.
If you’re diagnosed with a chronic disease, it’s important to be patient and work closely with your PCP to find the best solution. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating many common chronic conditions at Medical Associates Of North Texas.
We partner with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, and we help you manage your condition in everyday life. Depending on your condition, your treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, and referrals to specialists.
As part of your ongoing health care, we monitor your condition over time and make any adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.
Your PCP is often the best place to start if you think you have a chronic disease, but it doesn’t mean you won’t see specialists in the future. Your PCP may refer you to a specialist, like a rheumatologist, endocrinologist, or cardiologist, depending on the results of your evaluation.
Last but not least, your PCP can help you navigate the healthcare system. Starting with primary care makes it easier for our team to coordinate your care. If you see a specialist, we work with them to ensure your treatment plan is comprehensive and that all your healthcare providers communicate effectively.
If you think you have a chronic disease, your PCP is a good place to get the necessary answers. Call our Fort Worth, Texas, office at 972-433-7178 or send us a message online to learn more.
