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August 2007 – Need Help Finding a Doctor?
In the world of health care, it’s important for you to have a doctor who coordinates your medical care. That doctor is a primary care physician.
“A primary care physician is a physician with special expertise in chronic disease management, preventive medicine and wellness,” said Medical College of Wisconsin internist and pediatrician Mark Lodes, MD. Dr. Lodes is the director of the Primary Care Initiative at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin. “They serve as a patient’s personal physician and coordinate care over the course of a lifetime. Your physician will be an advocate for your health, provide preventive and long-term care, and coordinate your care with other specialists.
“Today, many people rely on the Internet and other resources for health information. But nothing replaces a visit to a primary care physician. A primary care physician is the quarterback of your healthcare team.”
Primary care physicians include internal medicine doctors (internists), family medicine doctors and pediatricians (for infants, children and adolescents). Some women rely on their obstetrician/gynecologist to provide primary care services, particularly during their reproductive years.
A primary care physician performs many important services, including:
- Reviewing your health history
- Performing a complete physical examination
- Addressing health concerns
- Providing ancillary services (such as laboratory work and imaging)
- Making referrals to specialists when appropriate
- Maintaining your healthcare record
- Helping you to understand confusing and/or conflicting information about medical conditions and treatments
- Providing preventive care such as health screenings, immunizations and lifestyle changes
Finding the Right Primary Care PhysicianIf you’re seeking a new primary care physician, Dr. Lodes recommends the following things to consider:
- Where you live or work in relation to the doctor’s office
- Your healthcare insurance coverage (which doctors are in your plan)
- Your personal healthcare needs
- Access and availability of the physician
- The gender of the physician (e.g., a woman may prefer a female physician)
- The physician’s expertise and areas of interest
- If the physician is board-certified or board-eligible
- Feedback from friends and family members
The primary care clinics of Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin are conveniently located throughout the metro-Milwaukee area, providing high-quality care to meet the special needs of children and adults. Two additional sites will open in Menomonee Falls and Brookfield in 2008.
An electronic medical record system at each clinic seamlessly ties the clinics with Froedtert Hospital, allowing hospital staff to quickly access patient information (medical record, imaging tests, lab results, etc.) if needed.
“It’s important to choose a site and a practice with a reputation for excellence, with physicians who can see you when needed,” Dr. Lodes said. “Look for a physician who will listen to your concerns and who communicates effectively with you.
“If you’re a parent seeking a pediatrician for a child, find out if the doctor is available after hours for phone calls and provides urgent care services. On average, a child will see a pediatrician eight to 10 times during the first year of life, so a parent needs to feel comfortable with the doctor’s communication skills and philosophy.”
The primary clinics are part of Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, an academic medical center where physicians are at the forefront of scientific discovery, use the latest technology, teach the next generation of healthcare professionals and provide exceptional care. To learn more about the physicians at Froedtert & the Medical College primary care clinics, click on Physician Search within froedtert.com, or visit the Medical College’s HealthLink site.
Author: Marla Fraunfelder Date: Aug. 1, 2007 | Medical Reviewer: | Mark Lodes, MD | | Medical College of Wisconsin internist and pediatrician |
Online Editor(s): Christopher Sadler
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