If you are looking for a physician who will take care of all aspects of your family’s health, then you’ll want to look for a doctor who specializes in family medicine. A family doctor is comprehensively trained to provide healthcare to patients of all ages.
Their practice covers a wide array of illnesses, from common acute diseases such as the common cold and flu to chronic conditions such as diabetes and asthma. The family medicine doctor is where everyone in your family will want to go for your annual physical exams and vaccinations, such as flu shots.
Because this physician will serve you and your family through all stages of life, choosing a doctor who fits your family’s needs is vital in optimum healthcare. This provider will stay on top of any injuries, chronic conditions, and medications, which is why you will want to visit them at least annually.
What to Look for in a Family Medicine Physician
There are several key things you will want to look for when choosing a family doctor, including the following:
Are They Covered by Your Insurance?
You will need to check your covered family medicine doctors as listed by your insurance provider, and make sure that the physician is in your network. If you are interested in a particular doctor but their name isn’t on the list, call the doctor’s office and ask whether they accept your particular insurance coverage.
If the staff member on the phone says that they do indeed accept your coverage, write down the name of the person you speak to. If you want to make doubly sure, don’t hesitate to call your insurance provider for guidance.
Do They Have an Accommodating Schedule?
If you have a busy family, you may wish to choose a doctor whose office hours can accommodate your children’s schedule at school. Some family doctors have extended hours or flexible scheduling.
Are They Affiliated with Your Favorite Hospital?
Some people prefer family doctors who are affiliated with specific hospitals. This way, if you or someone in your family is in the hospital, your doctor can visit you during your stay. This is ideal for optimum overall healthcare.
Are They Credible and Experienced?
In choosing your family medicine doctor, check the doctor’s board certification and organizational affiliations – this information should be easily found on their website. Also, read the online reviews about the physician, and read their online biography to get a feel for what they’re like.
Family Medicine Doctor in Fort Worth, Texas
Finding a family medicine physician and building a long-term relationship with them is vital to keeping your whole family’s health in check. From diagnosis and treatment to the management of chronic diseases and preventive care, you can trust your family medicine doctor to help you stay as healthy as possible.
Here at Texas Medical Institute, our family medicine providers offer comprehensive patient-centered care for your family. To schedule an appointment with one of our outstanding healthcare providers, call our medical clinic in Fort Worth today at (817) 615-8633 or fill out our convenient online form to request an appointment now. We look forward to being your family doctor!