Many people dread going to the doctor, but regular doctor’s visits are the best way to ensure you’re living your healthiest life. There are several different types of doctors that specialize in different parts of the body, but there are a select few that require more visits than others. Here are six different types of medical providers that everyone should visit, at least once a year.
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#1: Your Primary Care Provider (PCP)
One of the most important healthcare providers that everyone needs to see is a physician that performs preventative screenings, physical exams, and keeps a record of your medical history. This doctor is known as your primary care provider and you should schedule a visit with him or her every year. If your PCP determines that you will need additional testing, he or she will refer you to a specialist.
#2: The Dentist
Everyone should visit a dentist every six months. A dentist checks for, diagnoses, and treats any issues relating to the teeth and gums. A dentist can also refer you to a specialist for more advanced oral issues, such as the removal of wisdom teeth. Your oral health plays a very important part in your overall health because the mouth is the entryway to the rest of your body. Proper brushing and flossing keep the bad bacteria away and prevents them from affecting other things like the respiratory system and the digestive system.
#3: A Dermatologist
Some may think that it’s only necessary to see a dermatologist if you have certain skin conditions, but it is also good to visit a dermatologist every year to be screened for skin cancer. Dermatologists also specialize in treating nails and hair, so if you’re having issues with any of these, you should make an appointment with a dermatologist.
#4: The Gynecologist
All women over the age of 21 should see a gynecologist every year. A visit to the gynecologist will screen for possible issues of the female reproductive system. They may also refer you to a specialist if you are diagnosed with a medical condition.
One of the most common medical conditions of the female reproductive system is ovarian cancer. Symptoms include abdominal pain, frequent urination, pelvic pain, rapid weight loss, and swelling in the abdomen. Ovarian cancer can be caused by genetics, aging, or foreign substances entering the body. The use of talcum powder has most notably been linked to women developing ovarian cancer, so it’s important to be aware of how to properly use feminine care products and other personal care products.
#5: An Eye Doctor
A yearly visit to the eye doctor can help scan for, diagnose, and treat any minor and major eye conditions. Optometrists (eye doctors) perform a variety of eye exams, including an eye muscle test, a refraction assessment, a retinal test, screenings for eye issues, and a visual acuity test. If you’re diagnosed with a serious eye condition, then your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist, who is trained to treat certain conditions and perform eye surgery.
#6: An Audiologist
An audiologist is a medical professional who identifies and treats hearing disorders. Oftentimes, hearing is taken for granted and it isn’t something in particular that many people think about until hearing issues occur. Visiting an audiologist on a regular basis is a way to prevent hearing disorders. Hearing is a very important sense; it helps with balance and even mental health. Hearing issues can also affect speech, especially in young children.
Conclusion
Other types of doctors that one may need to visit would be a chiropractor or a podiatrist, depending on what other types of issues you’re dealing with. However, these six above are a few of the most important because all of these healthcare providers provide preventative care and/or screen for certain conditions that can impact the rest of the body.
