According to Healthcare IT News, just 67% of millennials have a primary care physician. Yet, it is an invaluable service. In fact, there are several ways that a family care physician can save your life. From treating personal injuries to helping prevent disease, your physician can do more things than you realize. There are several ways in which they can save your life.

Preventative Care

A family physician will have a complete medical history for you and your family. This means that they'll keep an eye out for certain things. For example, if your family has a history of heart disease, they'll help you learn how to eat a heart-healthy diet to prevent cardiovascular problems. If possible, the same applies to helping prevent conditions like cancer and other illnesses.

Personal Injuries

Physicians are great for much more than a checkup or sore throat. A family care physician can provide pain relievers and some treatments for injuries. They can also refer you to have imaging, such as X-rays, or refer you to another doctor who can help.

Continuity of Care

Seeing the same doctor regularly ensures that you'll have continuous care while accomplishing your goals. This doctor will work with you over several years, if not decades, to ensure you are as healthy as possible. Your doctor will monitor every condition, whether you have weight loss goals or a mental illness. They'll also have an accurate health record to ensure you are always cared for.

Comprehensive Care

General practitioners provide a wide range of services. This doctor can see patients for common ailments, vaccines, or medical conditions. You may see your general practitioner for a referral to someone else, such as a psychologist, for a mental illness. However, most doctors can also prescribe medicine to help address common conditions, such as depression.

When you receive quality care, it's life-saving. Depression and other mental illnesses increase the risk of suicide and suicide ideation. Prompt treatment for personal injuries is critical, and you shouldn't have to wait in an emergency room for hours on end. Prevention is one of the essential components to enjoying a long, healthy life. Contact Hitchcock Family Medicine to schedule an appointment today.