Are you looking for a healthcare provider who can care for the whole family, from your newborn baby to your elderly parents? Do you want a doctor who knows your health history and can provide personalized care throughout your life? Then a family medicine provider might be the perfect choice for you.
Family medicine is a medical specialty dedicated to comprehensive healthcare for people of all ages. Family doctors, also known as family medicine physicians or providers, are primary care physicians who are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, from acute illnesses to chronic diseases. They emphasize preventive care and building long-term relationships with their patients, becoming a central point of contact for all your healthcare needs.
At UPMC, our family medicine providers are committed to offering patient-centered care, focusing on your unique health needs and well-being. We believe in fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship built on trust and understanding.
Key Principles of Family Medicine
Family medicine is more than just treating illnesses; it’s a philosophy of care centered on several core principles:
- Compassionate Care: Family doctors are known for their empathy and genuine desire to help patients. They prioritize a caring and supportive approach to healthcare.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Family medicine relies on the latest medical research and guidelines to ensure diagnoses and treatments are effective and up-to-date.
- Holistic Approach: Family medicine providers consider the whole person – your physical, mental, and emotional well-being – within the context of your family, culture, and community. They understand that your environment and lifestyle significantly impact your health.
- Long-Term Doctor-Patient Relationships: Family doctors aim to build lasting relationships with their patients over many years. This continuity of care allows them to understand your health history, track changes, and provide more personalized and effective care.
- Reflective Practice: Family medicine physicians are encouraged to be mindful and self-aware, reflecting on their practice to continually improve patient care and their professional skills.
- Commitment to Lifelong Learning: The field of medicine is constantly evolving. Family doctors are dedicated to continuous learning and professional development to provide the best possible care.
What Services Does a Family Medicine Provider Offer?
Your family medicine provider serves as your primary care physician (PCP), overseeing your overall healthcare. They are equipped to:
- Provide Comprehensive Care: Family doctors offer a broad spectrum of services, from preventive care and routine check-ups to managing chronic conditions and treating acute illnesses.
- Emphasize Preventive Care: A cornerstone of family medicine is preventing illness before it starts. Your family doctor will focus on health screenings, vaccinations, lifestyle counseling, and other preventive measures to keep you and your family healthy.
- Coordinate Specialized Care: When necessary, your family doctor will refer you to specialists and coordinate any advanced care you may need, ensuring a seamless healthcare experience.
Specific services offered at UPMC Family Medicine practices include:
- Preventive Care for All Ages:
- Routine physical exams
- Health screenings (e.g., cholesterol, blood pressure, cancer screenings)
- Vaccinations and immunizations
- Wellness counseling
- Gynecological Services: (at select locations)
- Birth control and family planning
- Pap tests and pelvic exams
- Preconception counseling
- Prenatal care
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute and Chronic Illnesses: (See detailed list below)
- Minor Injury Care:
- Wound care and dressings
- Splinting and casting for minor fractures and sprains
- Management of minor burns and lacerations
UPMC Family Medicine is integrated within a vast network of specialists and hospitals. This means you have access to a wide range of advanced medical services should you need them, all coordinated by your trusted family doctor. With locations throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New York, and some offering extended hours and walk-in options, UPMC Family Medicine strives to make healthcare convenient and accessible for you and your family.
Conditions Treated by Family Medicine Providers at UPMC
Family medicine providers are trained to treat a wide array of medical conditions across all ages. Here are some examples of what UPMC family medicine PCPs commonly treat:
Acute Health Issues:
- Flu and colds
- Infections (ear, sinus, respiratory, urinary tract)
- Allergies
- Skin rashes and infections
- Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
Children’s Health Needs:
- Common childhood illnesses (colds, coughs, ear infections)
- Well-child visits and check-ups
- Vaccinations
- Developmental screenings
- Sports physicals
Chronic Conditions:
- Asthma and COPD
- Diabetes
- Heart disease and hypertension
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Thyroid disorders
- High cholesterol
- Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety)
Men’s Health Issues:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Prostate issues (BPH)
- Incontinence
- Testosterone deficiency
Women’s Health Issues:
- Menopause management
- Osteoporosis screening and management
- Thyroid disorders
- Incontinence
- Routine gynecological care (at select locations)
Minor Injuries:
- Sprains and strains
- Bumps and bruises
- Cuts and scrapes
- Bug bites and stings
- Minor burns
Becoming a UPMC Family Medicine Patient
Establishing care with a UPMC Family Medicine provider is easy. You don’t need a referral to schedule an appointment.
To make an appointment:
- Find a family medicine health provider close to you.
- Call the office directly to schedule your visit.
Preparing for Your First Visit:
To ensure a smooth first appointment, please bring the following:
- Your health insurance information.
- A list of your current medications and allergies.
- Any relevant medical records, if available, or arrange to have them sent to UPMC.
- Be prepared to complete a health history questionnaire.
During your first visit, you can expect a comprehensive physical exam, a review of your medical history, and an opportunity to discuss any health concerns you may have. It’s also a great time to ask questions and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.
Choosing a family medicine provider at UPMC means choosing a partner in your health journey. We are dedicated to providing you and your family with high-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive healthcare for every stage of life.
