In an on-demand world, the expectation of convenience and accessibility in health care is becoming more and more important to consumers. Mount Sinai’s goal is to provide not only easy access, but to ensure the highest quality care available by encouraging individuals to have a steady relationship with a primary care physician.

Unlike telemedicine and urgent care options, a developed relationship with a primary care physician ensures a doctor has a complete, holistic view of a patient’s medical history. A physician who is familiar with a patent’s history makes it easier to avoid unnecessary testing and makes it easier to diagnose symptoms and treat ailments. A primary care physician can also help you set health and wellness goals and address any specific health concerns, especially involving family history. In major health studies, this proactive approach has been associated with fewer emergency room visits, and a reduced likelihood of being admitted to the hospital.

Seeing a primary care physician when you have a health problem can also save time and money. While symptoms can vary greatly and it can be hard to know what the cause is, primary care physicians are adept at diagnosing and treating a wide variety of ailments. In cases where a specialist needs to be brought in, a primary care physician can determine what type of specialist should be seen, and can provide information to the specialist who can help a patient get treated quickly and accurately. Think of it like a football team: the primary care physician is the quarterback who can pass the ball to the right receiver — or in this case, the right specialist — at the right time to achieve your health goals.

In its most basic form, a primary care physician serves as a guide to navigating the world of health care. The advantages of a patient/doctor long-term relationship allow a physician to:

• Foster patient participation in decision making about their health and care
• Provide opportunities for disease prevention and early detection of problems via regular screenings
• Provide vaccines to protect patients from developing serious or life-threatening infections
• Better manage a wide variety of chronic medical conditions to prevent the development of further complications
• Guide patients through the health system, including appropriate referrals and coordination for services from other health professionals
• Treat urgent symptoms that require immediate attention