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Importance Of Having A Family Doctor

Posted 08/06/25

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When doctors treat you for years, they get to know your medical history inside and out.  That helps them make accurate diagnoses, watch for red flags regarding medications and monitor changes in your health through the years.

The word "family" in family doctor is also very important.  They treat your family, and they are able to get an in-depth health history.  Our family members can have problems that can be hereditary and can also filter down to us through genetics.  If you change drs, or are moving out of the area, it is a good idea to ask for copies of your records so that you can pass them along to the next dr.  A lot of people need shot records for themselves or for their children and your family dr can supply you with these records.

Your family dr will perform your yearly checkup and manage conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.  They can also manage the smaller issues of sinus infections and injuries.  Seeing your dr on a regular basis, they know your conditions and medications and you have a record of your health.

They can refer you to specialist in the event this is needed.  We never know when in life we might need a cardiologist, neurologist, dermatologist, oncologist etc.  

  • Five reasons you should have a family doctor
  • Regular check ups with a family doctor help you and your family make healthy decisions and help prevent health problems.  Family doctors look to prevent health issues before they happen.
  • With a family dr you get to know them and they get to know you.  You build a relationship.
  • Makes your examinations more accurate and efficient.  There is an advantage to meeting with one dr and not having a different doctor everytime you are seen.
  • Your whole family is taken care of and your families well being is important.
  • You cannot diagnose yourself. Dr. Google is not the answer.  Doctors go through years of training so that they can identify ailments and help their patients

If you do not have a family dr, please consider establishing yourself with one.  At the Marshall County Health Department, you can come in one time in a year without a dr for vaccinations  and then after that period you must have a dr in place.