Homebase
Your doctor is always the starting point for any health need, including physical, emotional and mental health.
Care Continuum
Why should you have a health care home?
Having a “health care home” means that your medical information is organized and administered by the same doctor and his or her team. It is also known as a “medical home” or “primary doctor.” The health system is complicated, and it is not always easy to know where to go when something is needed. Having a home for medical assistance makes things easier.
What happens if I really have to go to the emergency room?
There may be special situations when you have to go to the emergency room. Consider these suggestions:
- Call your doctor, even if it is after hours. Even if the clinic is closed, you must call first. Some clinics have an after-hours call system to talk to a real person who can give you suggestions about what you can do. Or there may be a recorded message with suggestions from an urgent care clinic that your doctor recommends.
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For serious life-threatening conditions or one of your extremities (if you can die or lose an arm or a leg), go to the emergency room. Otherwise, follow these recommendations: If you go to an emergency clinic or the emergency room, doctors do not know your medical history (your history), and you might get an expensive bill. Use these photos to help you decide between going to your primary care doctor, the emergency clinic or the emergency room.
Get Regular Care
Your doctor knows when evaluations and other procedures need to be done. You should go to the doctor at least once a year to help you take care of yourself.
Your Doctor Knows Your Story
When establishing a relationship with your doctor you will not have to retell your story every time you see someone new.
References
If you need special medical help or have other personal needs that your doctor can not help with, they can assist you in getting an appointment with someone who can.
Affordable
Going to your home for medical assistance is much less expensive than the emergency room, the emergency clinic or an outpatient clinic.
