July 2023

Regular visits to the doctor are a proactive step to maintaining good health for both you and your family. 

But why should you consider visiting a family medicine clinic instead of a larger healthcare provider? The reasons are many, but we’ve narrowed them down to three.

1. Comprehensive Health Care

One of the main reasons to visit a family medicine clinic is the comprehensive, all-encompassing manner of treatment offered. Family medicine clinics provide a wide range of services to patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. These services include routine physical exams, immunizations, and screenings for common health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer. 

In addition, family medicine clinics often offer care for minor illnesses and injuries such as colds, cuts and the flu. If necessary, your family medicine doctor can also refer you to a specialist for further treatment.

A family medicine doctor has a complete, holistic understanding of your health history and can provide a more personalized approach to your care. They can help you manage chronic conditions, provide preventive care, and help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

2. Convenient Access to Care

Another advantage of visiting a family medicine clinic is the convenience of readily finding care when needed. Family medicine clinics often have extended hours and offer same-day appointments, making it easy for you to receive the care you need when you need it. In addition, most family medicine clinics offer walk-in services for minor illnesses and injuries, so you don’t have to wait for a scheduled appointment to receive care.

Another benefit of visiting a family medicine clinic? On-site labs and diagnostic equipment allow for quicker and more efficient care. This can be especially important in emergencies, or when you are experiencing symptoms that require immediate attention.

3. Cost-Effective Care

Visiting a family medicine clinic is an affordable, budget-friendly option for healthcare. Family medicine clinics typically impose lower costs than specialty clinics or hospitals, which can result in significant savings for patients. How can they afford to?

• Lower Overhead Costs: Family medicine clinics typically have lower operating costs compared to larger hospitals and medical facilities, which allows them to offer more affordable services to their patients.
• Focus on Preventive Care: By emphasizing preventive care, family medicine clinics help patients avoid more expensive treatments and procedures down the line.
• Use of Technology: Many family medicine clinics use tech advancements such as electronic health records, telemedicine, and other tools to streamline their operations and reduce costs.
• Reduced Need for Specialist Referrals: By offering a range of services in one location, family medicine clinics reduce the need for patients to be referred to specialists; seeing specialists can be both time-consuming and expensive.

In addition, many family medicine clinics accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, making it easier for patients to receive the care they need without incurring high out-of-pocket costs.

Your Family Medicine Clinic

Visiting a family medicine clinic is a great way to stay on top of your health and keep yourself and your loved ones in good shape. If you haven’t already, consider scheduling an appointment with Richfield Medical Group today. We’re a patient-centered medical home and take pride in cultivating caring, lasting relationships with patients and their families. Together, we’ll work hard to manage your care and support you with your healthcare goals.