When To See a Primary Care Provider

The following are some general guidelines for when to see your primary care provider (PCP):

  • For preventive care: During your annual physical, your PCP can recommend other preventive care screenings and tests based on your age, sex, and risk factors. For example, you may need to get colon cancer screening starting at age 45, mammograms starting at age 40, and prostate cancer screening starting at age 55.
  • For acute illness: If you have any new or worsening symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, rash, or stomach pain, you should see your PCP right away.
  • For chronic illness management: If you have any chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma, you should see your PCP regularly to manage your condition and prevent complications.

Here are some specific reasons to see your PCP:

  • You have new or unusual symptoms. If you have any new or worsening symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, rash, or stomach pain, you should see your PCP right away.
  • You have risk factors for chronic diseases. If you have any risk factors for chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease or cancer, you should see your PCP regularly for preventive care.
  • You are taking any medications. If you are taking any medications, such as blood pressure medication, cholesterol medication, or birth control pills, you should see your PCP regularly to monitor your health and make sure the medications are safe for you.
  • You are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, your PCP can help you develop coping strategies and manage your mental health.

If you are unsure whether or not you should see your PCP, it is always better to err on the side of caution and schedule an appointment.