A lung condition called emphysema causes shortness of breath due to damage and enlargement of the lungs' air sacs (alveoli). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung diseases that cause difficulty breathing. It can be caused by long-term exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust, among other factors.
If you suffer from emphysema, you may be at increased risk of developing lung infections, heart problems, or collapsed lungs. Emphysema is treated by reducing symptoms, preventing flare-ups, and slowing down the disease's progression. Medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, or surgery are some of the options.
Managing emphysema requires regular monitoring and follow-up by your health care provider. The ability to access quality and affordable health care is challenging for many people with emphysema, however, direct primary care (DPC) can help. You may also need to make some lifestyle changes to improve your lung function and prevent further damage.
In exchange for a monthly or annual fee, primary care physicians can offer their services directly to their patients through direct primary care (DPC), without having to deal with insurance companies. Primary care services provided by DPC include consultations, exams, care coordination, and lab testing. Patients can also communicate with their physicians via telephone, email, or video chat through DPC.
Patients with emphysema can benefit from DPC in many ways, including:
You spend more time with your doctor. DPC physicians typically have fewer patients than traditional primary care physicians. As a result, they can provide more personalized and comprehensive care and spend more time with their patients. Your doctor can see you more frequently and for longer periods of time without having to worry about copays or deductibles.
Better communication and access. DPC physicians are more accessible and responsive to their patients' needs. You can contact your doctor whenever you have a question or concern about your condition or treatment. Telehealth services allow you to receive care at home or at work.
You know exactly what you are paying for and what services are included in your membership fee. DPC memberships tend to be very affordable and transparent. If your DPC physician offers discounts on medications, lab tests, imaging studies, or referrals, you can also save money.
A DPC physician focuses on wellness and preventative care. By providing regular check-ups, screenings, immunizations, nutritional advice, exercise guidance, and chronic disease management, they can help you manage your risk factors and complications related to emphysema.
In addition to helping you navigate the complex health care system, DPC physicians can coordinate your care with other specialists and health care providers.
It may be a good idea to join a DPC practice if you have emphysema or are at risk of developing it. A DPC physician can provide you with personalized and holistic care that addresses your physical, mental, and emotional needs.
Learn about your condition and your treatment options
Keep a close eye on your symptoms and treatment response
You may need to adjust the dosage and frequency of your medication
Treatment side effects and complications should be managed
Educate you on how to prevent emphysema from worsening or recurring
Provide you with the tools you need to take charge of your health and well-being
As Benjamin Franklin said: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
A DPC practice can help you prevent or manage your emphysema more effectively and improve your quality of life.
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