A PCP today could be a General Practitioner, Family Physician, Internist, OB-GYN and even a Pediatrician.
This physician should be able to diagnose numerous conditions and also be able to manage many conditions. However, after initial management it may be beneficial to refer to a specialist such as Orthopedics, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Hematology, Neurology, Surgery, Dermatology etc.
It’s unfortunate if they just refer out without much effort- maybe they just don’t know enough or are burnt out.
My advice- don’t stay with someone who doesn’t really seems interested in getting to know you.
I had one superb Internist before I retired and moved. My current Internist is excellent and very knowledgeable. Unfortunately, he is VIP. My husband and I both have complicated medical problems and realize the expense is worth it.
I always go in with a list- and I ask all questions. He has really been exceptional in finding the right Specialists for me.
This past year he sent me to a GI who is very knowledgeable and showed interest as well as planning treatment. I had been to Mayo for years but now was rejected. Most recently I got a second opinion in Cardiology and Pulmonary- also exceptional.
@juliess
I’m sorry not to explain further- they probably are called Concierge more often. You pay an annual fee to become a patient. Less patients, better access and extended visits. I have called ours anytime I need immediate advice- unless I go to ER. I would prefer not to have that expense in retirement but our area has turned into this. Very hard to find a regular doctor taking new patients.
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What does VIP mean?
@juliess
I’m sorry not to explain further- they probably are called Concierge more often. You pay an annual fee to become a patient. Less patients, better access and extended visits. I have called ours anytime I need immediate advice- unless I go to ER. I would prefer not to have that expense in retirement but our area has turned into this. Very hard to find a regular doctor taking new patients.