Choosing an internist as your primary care physician means you will pair up with a trained doctor who also becomes your personal healthcare advocate, dedicated to learning the big picture of your health story, as well as all the details. They will learn your health and family history, as well as any complications or adverse reactions you might have.
Because internists make it their mission to become experts in your individual health, they know what’s best for you and make sure to communicate that with other providers and institutions who may not be as familiar with your case. In today’s complicated healthcare world, internists serve as a bridge between you and the other providers you may need (outpatient clinics, labs, pharmacies, urgent care centers, physical therapists, visiting nurses, etc), making sure all parties understand your needs.
Especially as you age, It is highly valuable to have a physician like an internist who knows the whole story of your health. Their personalized approach to healthcare means that they will correctly diagnose you, advocate for you, and ensure proper outpatient follow-up,
As a result, care from an internist can reduce the length of hospital stays and lower rates of readmission. They minimize the risk of incorrect or overlooked information that can lead to errors in treatment or even deadly complications.