It's All About Working Together: 3 Healthcare Professionals You Should Add to Your Team While You're Still Young

You're never too young to take care of your health. In your 20's, you might feel like a regular doctor or host of specialists isn't necessary. Sure, you get sick once and awhile, but it's nothing some Tylenol can't fix.

Most young people only go to the doctor when something is really wrong with them, but preventative medicine is an important aspect of your well-being. To stay healthy and strong throughout your life, it's a good idea to find some healthcare professionals now that you can rely on for years to come.

Dentist
Do you skip your regular cleanings? Or do you just let your teeth go until you have to find a local dentist to fill a cavity? Dentists are usually viewed separately from doctors because their work isn't covered by standard health insurance, but that doesn't mean they aren't a vital asset to your health!

Your oral hygiene plays a bigger role in your physical health than you think. Gum disease can lead to heart disease, certain types of cancer and even cause infertility.

Ophthalmologist
Age-related eye problems are a frequent occurrence. You may suddenly become near or far-sighted in early adulthood and need glasses. An ophthalmologist can match you with the right prescription and identify any underlying eye problems. If you have any medical conditions that could affect your eyes like diabetes or high blood pressure, an ophthalmologist can help you maintain your vision and treat symptoms like dry eyes.

General Practitioner
Don't rely on urgent care to get you through illness and injury. Find a general doctor (often called a primary care physician in health insurance) to take care of you. Having someone who performs your annual physicals and knows your medical history extensively can provide a great relief when symptoms strike. They will get to know you more as time progresses, which will make it much easier for them to diagnose you and suggest the best treatment options than someone who doesn't know your background. For example, if you end up needing CKD treatment or treatment for a heart condition, knowing how you work with doctors and other conditions that might have an impact on treatments is beneficial.

A general practitioner can stick with you throughout most of your adult life. There is a comfort in knowing that this person you trust will be there when you're in need, and it's much easier to stay on top of your health when you have a go-to source.

Your health insurance network is the fastest way to find doctors that are covered by your provider. You may need a referral from a primary care physician to see a specialist, so check out your policy's guidelines before making any appointments. You can also use online tools like the American Medical Association's doctor finder to find physicians in your area that suit your needs. Remember that if you don’t feel heard or understood by your doctors, you can see someone else.