As the name implies, esophagitis refers to inflammation or irritation of the esophagus, which is responsible for transporting food from mouth to stomach. Esophagitis can be caused by various factors, including stomach acids backing up into the esophagus, bacterial or viral infections, certain medications, allergies, radiation therapy, or autoimmune diseases1.
As esophagitis involves multiple health care providers, tests, medications, and services, it can be difficult to diagnose and treat. It can be difficult for people with esophagitis and their families to access quality and affordable health care. Direct primary care (DPC) can help here.
By offering direct primary care services directly to patients, primary care physicians do not have to deal with insurance companies in exchange for a monthly or annual fee2. As part of the membership fee, patients can access their physicians by phone, email, or video chat. DPC provides a variety of primary care services, including consultations, exams, care coordination, and some laboratory services.
DPC has many benefits for patients with esophagitis, such as:
Typically, DPC physicians have fewer patients than traditional primary care physicians, which means they are more able to provide more personalized and comprehensive care to each patient. Your physician can see you longer and more often without you having to worry about copays or deductibles.
You can contact your doctor whenever you have a question or concern about your condition or treatment. DPC physicians are more accessible and responsive to their patients’ needs. In addition to getting care from home or the office, you can also use telehealth services.
DPC memberships are usually affordable and transparent. You know exactly what you are paying for and what services are included in your membership fee. Using your DPC physician's discounts can help you save money on medications, lab tests, imaging studies, and referrals.
Preventive care. DPC physicians focus on preventive care and wellness. They can help you identify and treat the underlying causes of your esophagitis, such as allergies, immune system problems, or infections. For the purpose of improving your condition and preventing recurrence, they can also provide lifestyle counseling, nutrition advice, esophagitis education, and management strategies.
DPC physicians are trained to coordinate your care with other specialists and health care providers. They can help you navigate the complex health care system and ensure you receive the best care possible.
You might consider joining a DPC practice if you have esophagitis 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 an 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
Provide you with information on how to prevent esophagitis from worsening or recurrence
Enhance your health and well-being by empowering you
As Hippocrates said: “It is more important to know what sort of person has a disease than to know what sort of disease a person has.”
In a DPC practice, you can get to know your physician better and receive more individualized care for your esophagitis.
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