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Are These Three Misconceptions Keeping You from Seeing a Primary Care Provider?

April 13, 2023

More than 100 million people in the United States don’t have a primary care provider. That’s nearly a third of Americans.

But if you don’t have a primary care provider, you may be missing out on an important opportunity for prevention.

“Your primary care provider will work with you to ensure that there are no changes to your health that may be dangerous,” says Muhammad Bhutta, MD, a Stamford primary care physician.

Dr. Bhutta addresses three common misconceptions that may be keeping you or your loved ones from seeing a primary care provider.

1. I’m not sick – why should I bother.

Whether you’re sick or not, it’s important that you see your primary care provider at least once a year. Many silent diseases can be destructive to our bodies if left untreated.

“You may not notice high blood pressure or high cholesterol until it causes a heart attack or stroke. So, preventative care is very important for our health and well-being,” explains Dr. Bhutta.

Establishing a relationship with your primary care provider now will allow them to understand you and your current needs and develop healthcare goals to prevent sickness further down the road.

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2. I can’t make time for the doctor.

Even though it may feel like you are juggling around a million things at once, making time for your primary care provider should be a priority.

“Taking the time out for your primary care provider now could save you unintended emergency room and hospital visits. It can also prolong and increase your quality of life,” adds Dr. Bhutta. “If you invest in your retirement, children, and financial future, why take a chance on your health?”

After you have an in-person visit with a primary care provider at Hartford HealthCare Medical Group, you have the option to see your primary care provider virtually, which may save you some time in the end.

> Related: 7 Health Tips for Your 30s

3. I can’t afford it.

Healthcare is making strides to become more cost-effective and convenient. And there’s been a lot of effort put in around price transparency and understandable payment options.

If you have concerns about insurance due to your documentation status, Dr. Bhutta recommends looking into resources and programs that can help you get the services you need.

“Regardless of documentation status or other factors that make us different, as humans, we have a right to seek healthcare. Our goal as a primary care provider is to alleviate any suffering and improve quality of life.”

So whatever misconceptions are keeping you from your primary care provider – it might be time to reconsider.