Zachary Bittinger, MD (right) reviews medical history with a patient during an annual checkup. Bittinger emphasizes three health priorities with all patients: a balanced diet and exercise plan, updated vaccinations and regular visits to their primary care provider. Credit: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
A new survey commissioned by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center finds young adults are missing out on the health benefits of having a primary care doctor.
The national poll of 1,006 adults found only 71% of adults ages 18–29 have a primary care doctor, compared with 97% of adults 65 and older. Among younger adults who do have a doctor, only 47% have had a checkup in the past year.
"Having a primary doctor is especially important when we're young," said Zachary Bittinger, MD, family medicine physician and clinical assistant professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine. "We look ahead five years, 10 years and 20 years, because that's ideally how long you see your primary doctor. That kind of relationship means that for each stage of life, from college to raising children to retirement, you get the kind of advice that keeps you safe."
Primary care is often called the front door to the healthcare system, yet a new national survey shows many Americans aren't opening that door at all- leading to delayed diagnoses, missed screenings and worse long-term health outcomes. Credit: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
