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Assemble a Healthcare TeamTreating chronic disease often requires a team approach, with different members taking care of different aspects of your treatment. Although not all people will need all people listed on their team and some will have members who are not on the list here, the list here is a good one to get your started. And who is the captain of your team? You!
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Primary care doctor |
This the doctor you see for most of your health concerns. If you need more specialized care your primary care doctor will usually make a referral and coordinate care among your specialists. Your primary care doctor will likely be a family practice physician or an internist.
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Physician specialists |
Depending on your particular condition, you may have specialists to treat specific aspects of your disease. This may include a rheumatologist to treat arthritis and other conditions that affect the joints, bones and connective tissue; a dermatologist to treat conditions that affect the skin, hair and nails; a cardiologist to treat problems affecting the heart and blood vessels; a pulmonologist for lung disease; an endocrinologist for conditions of the glands, including thyroid disease and diabetes; a neurologist for conditions affecting the brain and nerves; or a nephrologist for kidney conditions. If your condition requires surgery, your doctor will refer you to a surgeon. Depending on the type of surgery, this may be a general surgeon or a surgeon specializing in a particular type of surgery such as orthopedic, cardiac or neurosurgery.
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Dentist |
Seeing a dentist regularly is important for more than a healthy smile. Good dental care is important to your overall health. Uncontrolled inflammation in the gums can potentially contribute to or worsen many health problems including rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Regular dental care can be an important component of controlling these diseases.
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Physical therapist |
A physical therapist can work with you to develop an individualized plan to manage your condition using treatment techniques that promote the ability to move, restore function, reduce pain and prevent disability.
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Occupational Therapist |
If your condition makes it difficult for you to work or do everyday tasks, an occupational therapist can work with you to find assistive devices and develop techniques to do those tasks more easily and safely.
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Dietitian |
Good nutrition is important for overall good health, and some diseases have specific dietary requirements or restrictions. A registered dietitian can help you develop a healthy eating plan based on foods you already like as well as some you may want to try.
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Pharmacist |
Your pharmacist is a good source of information about the drugs you take as well as possible interactions among them. If you have questions about of your medications ask to speak with the pharmacist when you get your prescription filled.
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Mental Health Therapist (counselor) |
Therapists seek to help individuals, families, and couples in chronic disease pain improve their quality of life and enhance well-being by providing support and resources.
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