The Brain and Spine Institute is made up of experts in the field of neuroscience in order to bring patients the best healthcare in East Tennessee for a full range of neurological diseases and disorders.
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We provide a comprehensive continuum of cancer services, including prevention, outreach, diagnostic, treatment and support services delivered by our highly skilled staff with compassion and care.
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The Center for Women & Children's Health is a hub for supporting women's and children's individual healthcare needs. The center provides support, research and unmatched patient-centered care.
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Emergency and Trauma Services is the only Level I Trauma Center in the area and serves as the tertiary referral center for medical care in East Tennessee, serving Knox County and 21 surrounding counties.
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The Heart Lung Vascular Institute brings together expertise in clinical care, teaching and research. Patients receive exceptional healthcare combined with patient-centered care.
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What Does a Primary Care Doctor Mean to Your Health?
Published: Thursday, January 1, 2009
We have all heard the old adage, “Consult your physician before starting any diet or exercise program,” and for good reason. Primary care physicians (family practice or internal medicine) are the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. Using a primary care physician as the leaders of your healthcare team improves overall health and reduces medical costs.
A primary care physician can help you navigate what sometimes can be complicated healthcare systems, direct your ongoing care, guide you to appropriate medical resources and keep you from undergoing unnecessary tests and services. They use their expertise to evaluate conditions and determine the best courses of care. They distinguish the minor cases from serious problems and advise their patients accordingly. Creating and preserving the patient-physician relationship is significant in terms of continuity of care and establishing a designated hub for your medical history.
Many women consider their ob/gyn to be their personal physician, however, it also is important to have a family practitioner or internist who is familiar with your complete medical history and who can provide treatment should another type of illness arise – one that a gynecologist may not be trained to handle. All doctors are not the same, and internal medicine or family practitioners are experts at handling general adult medical problems.
Before choosing a primary care physician, prepare a list that outlines what you are looking for in a physician. Members of the Healthcare Coordination team at the University of Tennessee Medical Center can use that list to find a primary care physician that meets your needs.
For a customized referral to a primary care physician, please call Healthcare Coordination at 865.305.6970 or toll-free 1.877. UT.CARES.
A relationship with your primary care physician provides the foundation for appropriate responses to preventive and acute care issues.
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