When you feel sick or have a health concern, you might look up your symptoms online or buy an over-the-counter medication. When you have multiple concerns or experience chronic conditions, think “first” about going to your primary care provider. If you don’t have a primary care provider, read on to learn why you should and how Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield can help you find one.
What is primary care?
Primary is another way to say “first.” Primary care is your first place to go for prevention, wellness, and treatment of common illnesses. In other words, the purpose of primary care is to take care of your overall health and well-being.
Primary care providers are doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They are often called “family doctors” or “PCPs.” These professionals offer routine health services like physicals, screenings, vaccines and more.
Why is having a PCP important?
Having a trusted PCP is an important part of your health journey. PCPs usually build long-term relationships with their patients, which helps them understand their medical history. This relationship makes it easier to talk openly about your health and ask questions.
PCPs can discuss and treat a wide range of health issues, serving as an “entry point” to healthcare. They can also refer patients to specialists and coordinate care plans. This is especially important for people with chronic health issues who may require multiple providers and specialists.
Additionally, PCPs can spot underlying conditions or risk factors for certain chronic illnesses early on. They can recommend treatment or lifestyle changes to help manage your health, which can prevent issues from becoming more serious.
What is a chronic illness?
Chronic illnesses are health conditions that last three months or more. Many chronic conditions require ongoing medical attention and can impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities or tasks. Arthritis, asthma, diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease are considered chronic illnesses.
In fact, over 85% of Americans ages 65 and older have at least one chronic condition. In Arkansas, the most common chronic diseases are hypertension, arthritis and obesity.
Certain behaviors can increase the risk of developing a chronic disease. Smoking, poor nutrition, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol use all increase the risk of chronic disease. However, with guidance from a PCP on treatment and lifestyle changes, many chronic conditions can be managed.
How primary care strengthens chronic disease management
Primary care plays an important role in managing chronic diseases by strengthening overall care and support. PCPs are trained to help identify and manage chronic diseases. They create personalized treatment plans to help address symptoms and avoid complications. Treatment plans can include education, medication or other evidence-based therapies. They may also include diet and exercise guidelines.
How we can help with chronic disease management
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has nurse case managers who can help you and your PCP coordinate care if you have a chronic condition. They don’t replace your PCP; they can help you navigate your healthcare journey by making sure you have access to medical equipment, answering questions, and finding specialists. Call the number on the back of your member ID card to connect to a nurse case manager.
Prevention & taking good care
Primary care is essential for our members and communities. Having a PCP is an important part of taking good care of your health and well-being, especially for people with chronic conditions. Annual wellness visits with your PCP are free or low-cost with Arkansas Blue Cross insurance plans.
Our website provides more helpful resources on primary care and how to find a PCP today.