Being "Connected" to MD May Lead to Better Care
According to a recent study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, patients who see one primary care doctor are more likely to receive care consistent with medical guidelines (for example, cancer screenings) than those who are only connected to a practice. Considering how difficult it is to find a PCP in the Boston area, that's a concern!
Tags: care, primary, screenings
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by Kelly D on -
There is definitely a benefit of having a single doctor, rather than being part of a rotating group. Our insurance doesn't require a PCP anymore so we can go see any doctor that we want. I became ill of the December holiday and picked a random doctor at the facility where I had gone to 3 years prior. I just needed to get in and get medicine. However, I loved the doctor. One week later I had to go back for something else and I requested her again. It was nice to have a familiar face and someone who knew a little about my history. In general, I don't think we take our health care serious enough until we need it.
-
Permalink Reply by Ellen S on -
Hi Ericalee... Great to meet you!
I posted about this very thing as well - I guess great minds and all that, lol! My Blog link
Several of our docs are at a teaching hospital nearby. Unfortunately, that means we're connected more to the practice vs. the doctor as they tend to come and go frequently. As a patient with chronic issues, this has really hurt me in the past as each doc wants to start over at the beginning. It's frustrating, but it's also interesting to stand back and watch a fresh approach. Much patience is required, but it's the trade-off for not having to drive 4 or more hrs each direction to someone else.
What do you think are some good ways to make sure your doctor thinks of you as "their" patient??
© 2009 Created by Marie
