Why is seeing a primary care provider (PCP) important?

Take it from Prevea Health’s President and CEO, Ashok Rai, MD, one of the most important relationships you can build for your health is with a primary care doctor (PCP).


Dr. Rai went nearly 10 years without seeing his own primary care doctor. He was busy taking care of everyone else but we wasn’t taking care of himself. He rationalized feeling worn down and weight gain, thinking that if something was really wrong, he'd know it as a physician.  
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When cardiac symptoms appeared, his cardiologist ordered an echocardiogram. As a busy professional, he delayed it for months and without regular check ins with his primary care physician, no one had a complete picture of his health to recognize the urgency. The results were eye-opening: high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, complications from diabetes and heart disease – resulting in emergency heart surgery. 

The mental journey following surgery and lifestyle changes were just as difficult as the physical recovery, if not harder. Today, with healthier habits, he's in a better place both mentally and physically. Dr. Rai shares his story so others can learn from his experience. His message is clear. “Regular check-ups matter.”  

Schedule that 30-minute appointment. Rather than taking time away from things, see it as an investment in your future and the people who count on you. 

From childhood checkups to adult preventative care, your primary care doctor provides continuity of care through all stages of life. Your PCP gets to know you and your family personally, understanding your lifestyle and medical history to provide a complete picture of your health. 

  • Through regular checkups and screenings, your primary care doctor can catch potential health issues early, which means more treatment options and better outcomes if medical concerns do arise.
  • As your trusted health care provider, they're also your first stop when something doesn't feel right and your personal health advocate, so you don't have to navigate medical care alone.
  • Having a primary care doctor provides peace of mind because they provide comprehensive, age-friendly care. As your medical needs change, they will work with you to map out a plan for lifelong health.

How to choose the right doctor?  

Whether you’re looking for medical care for yourself, a loved one or your entire family – we’ll guide you to the right primary care doctor for your needs.  

With pediatrics, family medicine, internal medicine providers, Prevea makes it easy to get the care you need when you need it – with doctors you can trust. If you’re not sure where to start, call our patient advocates at (920) 272-3540. They’re available to answer your questions and help you find the right doctor.