One-Stop Doc Shopping For The Whole Family


Can you name the BBC's wacky sci-fi show that's been running off and on since 1963? "Doctor Who" is now a super-series. It focuses on a time-traveling, personality- and appearance-changing character known simply as The Doctor, and millions of fans find it endlessly entertaining.

But wondering about "Doctor Who" is not so enjoyable for the millions of folks who've recently had to find a new primary-care doctor for their toddler, their teen, themselves and their spouse because their health insurance coverage changed.

So here's an idea that may simplify your search and provide good primary care for your entire family from age 2 to 82: Consider signing up with a doctor who practices Family Medicine. Family medicine docs are patient-oriented and, according to the American Association of Family Physicians, offer care that's uniquely personal and comprehensive and not limited by your age or gender. They advocate care based on knowledge of your health issues and in the context of your family and community. And they emphasize disease prevention and health promotion.

Every year, May 19 is World Family Doctor Day, but we bet you'll find reason to celebrate whatever the date if you and your family get your care from a family medicine practitioner. When Wanda Filer, the president-elect of AAFP, was on "The Dr. Oz Show" this year, she stressed how a family physician's unique approach can help everyone in your family feel more comfortable working with a health-care provider to stay well and manage illness. And we agree.

© 2015 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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