Dr. Matchmaker
Looking to get matched with a provider? Give us a call at 325.747.2343or send an email to DrMatchmaker@shannonhealth.org
Our Dr. Matchmaker service can connect you with a primary care provider as well as a specialty care.
Don’t have a primary care provider? Learn more below.
PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS: YOUR CONNECTION TO CARE
What is a Primary Care Provider (PCP)?
“Primary care” is the term used to describe healthcare that deals with overall health and non-emergency care. A primary care provider (often called a PCP) is a doctor or medical practitioner who helps manage your overall health. PCPs may be board-certified doctors, nurse practitioners or physician assistants – all of whom have extensive education and clinical training for a variety of health concerns.
Why do I need a PCP?
Think of your PCP as the “captain” of your team of healthcare professionals. In addition to providing care for acute illnesses (colds, flu, rashes, ear infections), your PCP can help manage your overall physical, mental, and emotional health, monitor conditions with regular visits and testing, prescribe medications and connect you to other specialist providers to treat specific diseases.
Holistic Care
Seeing a PCP regularly allows you to build personal connections with someone in the healthcare system who understands you, your health and your lifestyle. They can help you solve common issues that may impact your daily life, as well as provide a safe and judgement-free environment to ask questions about your health.
Preventative Care
Because your PCP knows about many different diseases and health concerns, they can help monitor changes in your body over time and identify early signs of more serious health problems. Tests like annual physical exams, blood work, well-woman exams and more can indicate more serious conditions before they become urgent. PCPs can also administer recommended or required immunizations (like flu shots), or other types of screenings for school, work or travel.
Chronic Conditions
Your PCP can ensure you have consistent, accurate treatment for chronic conditions, like high cholesterol or diabetes. Having a single provider who knows the medications you’re taking and why can help identify which treatments work well together for your overall health.
Connecting You to Specialty Care
In some cases, seeing your PCP is the most direct way to access specialist care. Primary Care Providers can refer you to doctors in other specialties (like cardiology, orthopedics or gynecology) to help identify and treat different health conditions. Your PCP can determine which specialist would be best at treating different conditions and stay in contact with the specialist and with you while coordinating your care. This allows your PCP to stay up to date on your current medications and treatments from different doctors.
Looking for a PCP?
If you’re looking for a Primary Care Provider, our Dr. Matchmaker service can connect you with a physician or advanced practice professional who fits your needs. Contact us at (325) 747-2343 or DrMatchmaker@ShannonHealth.org to find your new PCP today.