Primary Care

What is primary care?

Primary care is a branch of medicine focused on treating the whole person. Primary care doctors, like Dr. Bretal, treat aches, sprains, and illnesses such as the common cold. They also:

• Offer nutritional counseling
• Monitor your health over time
• Work with you to achieve lifestyle goals
• Care for most diseases

Primary care doctors also educate patients about living with chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. 

For example, Dr. Bretal might recommend lifestyle changes such as eating a healthier diet, exercising regularly, and losing weight to improve your health and quality of life. 

Are there different types of primary care?

At Weston Health & Wellness, Dr. Bretal offers two specific types of primary care: 

Internal Medicine

Internal medicine is a branch of primary care focused on treating adults. As an internal medicine physician, Dr. Bretal can diagnose and treat ailments such as strep throat and the flu. She also offers preventive screening measures including vaccinations, laboratory testing, and weight loss counseling. 

Obstetrics and gynecology

Obstetrics and gynecology is a branch of primary care focused on women’s reproductive health. If you’re sexually active, but don’t want to start a family, Dr. Bretal can prescribe birth control or another type of contraceptive. Dr. Bretal also offers Pap tests, mammograms, and STD screenings. 

What if I need to see a specialist?

If you need specialized care outside of Dr. Bretal’s expertise, she can coordinate treatment with other professionals in the area. Many complex medical conditions, such as diabetes, require management with a team of experts.

Following a review of your medical history and in-office exam, Dr. Bretal can make treatment recommendations that align with your needs. 

Does primary care treat diabetes?

Yes. Investing in primary care is an easy and effective way to better manage your diabetes. This is because in its early stages, diabetes doesn’t always present obvious symptoms. 

In fact, many people are living with diabetes and don’t even realize it. Visiting your primary physician at least once a year can alert you to the problem early on and help you manage your blood sugar levels. 

At Weston Medical Health & Wellness, Dr. Bretal regularly works with men and women to manage their diabetes. Depending on your health history, she might recommend eating a more balanced diet, exercising more regularly, or working to lose weight. 

Don’t put primary care on the back burner. To make your appointment at Weston Medical Health & Wellness, call the office or click the online booking tool today.