Why Do I Need to Keep All Appointments with My Provider?

I, as a patient navigator, for a hepatitis C program can not stress enough one, the importance of having a primary care provider. In my career, I find that the majority of my patients have no primary care provider. To say the least, this a very important provider in your life. The primary care provider is your first point of contact for care. This allows you to establish a relationship with a provider that you can rely on. While a primary care provider will see you for your basic health needs, the most important thing is that your primary care provider and refer you to specialist.

Finding specialists who can support you

With hepatitis C, your primary care provider can you get to a gastroenterologist or an infectious disease doctor with specialty in treating hepatitis C. Follow your care and knowledge to get you on the right track for optimal health services. Just the same, your primary care provider can connect you with mental health providers and other specialist to help you be successful at treatment and recovery. If you are unsure who to use as a primary care provider, ask your family, friends, and research providers in your area to choose the right one for you. It doesn't have to be the first one you pick, as you may want another opinion, and there is nothing wrong with that. Always remember, you are responsible to speak up and tell a provider what is wrong, what questions you have and ask for understanding as to your condition.