By Jonathan Oline, DO
Many individuals mistakenly wait until they are unwell to seek out a doctor. However, postponing preventive care or avoiding medical visits can lead to unforeseen health issues later on. This is why having a primary care provider (PCP) is essential. A primary care provider can be either a physician or a nurse practitioner who specializes in family or internal medicine.
Since you will likely consult your primary care provider more frequently than any other healthcare professional, it is crucial to establish a solid relationship with them early on. Research indicates that patients who have a primary care physician tend to experience better health outcomes and enjoy a longer lifespan.
Your primary care provider has a unique understanding of your health. Few other healthcare providers will know you as well as your PCP, who ideally should be someone you see regularly. This ongoing relationship means they are familiar with your:
- Current medications
- Family background
- Lifestyle choices
- Medical history
- Personal preferences
This in-depth knowledge allows your PCP to help you prevent illnesses through proactive health screenings and lifestyle changes. Furthermore, they are more likely to identify issues early because they are consistently monitoring your health.
Lifelong Care
Your primary care provider is with you throughout various stages of your life, from high school sports physicals and vaccinations to your first cancer screening and beyond. Whether you’re a teenager, a young adult, or a senior, your PCP is trained to manage your health over time. They can assist you in:
- Identifying health issues early to prevent progression
- Managing the risk of chronic diseases
- Implementing lifestyle changes (e.g., quitting smoking)
Whether you need a routine check-up or are experiencing acute symptoms, your PCP can track changes in your health over time.
Preventing Disease
Primary care providers are knowledgeable about a wide range of health issues, particularly chronic diseases such as:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol
Symptoms often do not appear in the early stages of chronic conditions, but your PCP knows what signs to watch for. With a comprehensive understanding of your routine check-up results and hereditary risks, they actively look for early warning signs that could indicate a problem.
As a result, PCPs can help you lower your risk of developing chronic conditions while also addressing potential complications by:
- Supporting lifestyle changes: If you have a chronic disease that can improve with healthier habits, your PCP can guide you in making gradual and manageable changes.
- Managing chronic conditions: Your primary care physician will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle and needs, ensuring you don’t have to manage conditions like diabetes alone.
- Referring you to specialists: If specialized care is necessary, your primary care provider can connect you with the appropriate experts, such as a breast health specialist or oncologist, for further evaluation.
Jonathan Oline, DO, is a highly regarded internal medicine physician who retired in January 2024 after serving as a Colonel in the Medical Corps, where he held the positions of Deputy Command Surgeon and Flight Surgeon at the 99th Readiness Division located in Fort Dix, JB-MDL, NJ. Specializing in both interventional and general cardiology, as well as internal medicine, Dr. Oline is committed to providing exceptional care for patients with complex medical conditions in critical care settings, step-down units, and on medical and surgical floors.
Dr. Oline received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from La Salle University in Philadelphia in 1979 and went on to earn his medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1983. He completed his residency at this same institution in 1986, where he was recognized with the Outstanding Resident Award for his exemplary performance. To enhance his expertise, Dr. Oline completed fellowships in cardiology at Deborah Heart & Lung in Browns Mills, NJ, in 1988 and in interventional cardiology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia in 1989.
A devoted professional, Dr. Oline is an active member of several esteemed organizations, including the Pennsylvania State Board of Osteopathic Medicine, the American Osteopathic Association, and the Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association.
To schedule an appointment at Lower Bucks Hospital’s Community Health Center, located at 501 Bath Road, 3rd Floor, Bristol, PA 19007, please call (215) 785-9677.