National Primary Care and National Physician Assistant’s Week

Dr. D’s Medical Update

October is an exciting month, not just because of pumpkins and Halloween, but because we celebrate two special weeks: National Primary Care Week and National Physician Assistant’s Week. Let’s dive into why these weeks are important and what they mean for all of us.

When you think of a doctor’s office, you’re probably picturing primary care. It’s the first stop for people feeling sick or having health questions. Primary care doctors are like the quarterbacks in the world of health; they help coordinate your care and guide you to specialists if needed. At HealthTexas, we pride ourselves on being the leaders of your healthcare team.

Physician Assistants, or PAs, are superstars in the medical world. They work side-by-side with doctors to examine, diagnose, and treat patients. Whether you’re getting a flu shot or need stitches, there’s a good chance a PA might be the one helping you out. We are fortunate to have Rebeca Gonzalez on our team at our Holy Cross location. She and I work hard to take great care of our patients.

Why celebrate National Primary Care Week?

1. Understanding Health: Primary care helps us stay on top of our health. Whether it’s a regular check-up, vaccination, or tackling an illness, primary care providers ensure we get the proper care at the right time.
2. Building Relationships: Many families have visited the same primary care doctor for years. It’s a special bond. They get to know you, your health history, and can offer personalized advice.
3. Prevention is Better: Primary care extensively focuses on preventing illnesses. Regular visits can catch health issues early when they are easier to treat.

Why Celebrate National Physician Assistant’s Week?

1. Valuable Team Players: PAs are crucial to the medical team. They have extensive training and can do many things doctors do, from prescribing medicines to ordering tests.
2. Accessible Care: You’ll often see PAs for quick visits or follow-ups, ensuring patients get timely care without long waits.
3. Diverse Roles: PAs work everywhere! From hospitals to clinics, from surgery rooms to primary care offices. They wear many hats in the world of health. We are very blessed that Ms. Gonzalez has chosen to work with us.

How Can We Celebrate?

1. Learn More: This month is a great time to learn about your health. Ask questions during your next visit to the doctor or PA.
2. Thank a PA or Doctor: If you’ve had a great experience with a PA or primary care doctor, let them know! A thank-you card or a simple “thank you” can mean a lot.
3. Stay Proactive: Schedule your yearly check-up if you haven’t already. Taking care of your health is one of the best ways to celebrate!

October is a time to appreciate the hard work of primary care providers and Physician Assistants. These dedicated professionals are at the heart of our healthcare system, ensuring we all stay healthy and happy. So next time you visit your doctor or PA, give them a big thank you for all they do!

Michael Dominguez, MD, FAAFP, is board-certified in Family Medicine. His office is located at HealthTexas Medical Group, 590 N. General McMullen, 78228, phone: 210-249-0212.