Working with a primary care provider

What is a primary care provider?

Primary care providers manage everyday health, preventive screening, common conditions, and specialist referrals. The role may be filled by a family physician, nurse practitioner, or another qualified practitioner.

When should I see my primary care provider?

Health concerns warrant contact; discuss whether regular comprehensive checkups suit your needs.

When do I need to go to urgent care or emergency?

Urgent concerns require timely care; severe, rapidly worsening, or life-threatening problems require emergency services.

How do I prepare for appointment?

Prioritize concerns and bring current health records, medication information, questions, and accessibility needs. A health journal can make recurring symptoms easier to discuss. Advance preparation also includes identifying prescription refills and forms.

What should I ask my primary care provider to check?

SCI-specific checklists complement routine screening and conversations about sexual and reproductive health. Screening needs include general health as well as complications linked to SCI.

How can my PCP improve their knowledge of SCI?

Professional education, accessibility guidance, and SCI organizations can help providers strengthen their knowledge. Resources include ASIA, SCIRE Professional, accessibility guidance, and community organizations.