Generally, impetigo affects infants and young children. The sores usually appear reddish on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, as well as on the hands and feet. They burst over about a week and develop a honey-colored crust. Infections caused by impetigo can be contracted by bacteria, usually staphylococci or streptococci, which can enter the skin through cuts, scrapes, or insect bites.
If left untreated, impetigo can result in complications such as cellulitis, kidney problems, or scarlet fever that can be uncomfortable, itchy, and sometimes painful. It is therefore essential that you or your child seek medical attention as soon as possible if you or your child develops symptoms of impetigo.
It can be difficult, however, to receive timely and effective care for impetigo in a traditional fee-for-service health care system. Long wait times, high deductibles, copays, or coinsurance, and limited access to your primary care provider may also be an issue. As well as filling out complicated paperwork, dealing with insurance claims, and following referral and prescription guidelines, you may also need to deal with complicated paperwork.
Direct primary care (DPC) can make a difference in this regard. In exchange for a monthly or annual fee, primary care physicians can offer their services directly to their patients without the involvement of insurance companies. The membership fee allows the patient access to a variety of primary care services, including consultations, exams, care coordination, and some lab services, without paying any additional fees at the time of service.
DPC offers several benefits for patients with impetigo, such as:
Providers in DPC practices typically have fewer patients than those in traditional practices, so they are able to provide more personalized care and more time with each patient. By doing so, they can diagnose and treat impetigo more accurately and efficiently, as well as monitor your progress and prevent complications. Benjamin Franklin once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
A DPC practice offers more convenience and flexibility. Most of the time, they offer same-day appointments, extended hours, and home visits. They also use technology to communicate with their patients and provide care remotely, such as phone calls, email, or video chats. If you have a busy schedule or live far from the clinic, this can save you time and hassle. In Albert Einstein's words, "Time exists just to make sure that everything doesn't happen at once."
DPC practices charge a flat fee that covers most primary care needs, without hidden or extra charges. There are no deductibles, copays, or coinsurance, nor do you have to worry if your insurance will cover your treatment. Moreover, you don't have to deal with billing, coding, or paperwork, which can reduce administrative costs and errors. This allows you to avoid surprises and save money. As Warren Buffett said, "Price is what you pay." Value is what you get.”
Depending on the type and severity of your impetigo, your DPC provider will develop a personalized treatment plan for you.
An antibiotic is the first line of treatment for impetigo. It can kill the bacteria that cause the infection and prevent it from spreading. A DPC provider can prescribe the appropriate antibiotic for you, in either a cream, ointment, pill, or liquid form, depending on your condition. If necessary, they can adjust the dosage or switch to a different antibiotic based on your response to the medication. They can also provide you with the medication directly or through a partner pharmacy, without any additional cost or hassle.
The treatment of impetigo includes wound care, which can prevent the infection from worsening or spreading, promote healing, and reduce scarring. As well as providing you with the necessary supplies, such as gauze, bandages, antiseptic, and moisturizer, your DPC provider can teach you how to properly clean and dress your sores. You will also receive feedback and advice from them regarding your wounds.
You can also manage your impetigo and prevent recurrence by making lifestyle changes. Your DPC provider can assist you in identifying and avoiding triggers such as stress, allergies, and irritants that can cause or worsen your impetigo. Furthermore, they can help you improve hygiene, nutrition, and immunity, as well as protect your skin from further damage. They can also provide you with support and encouragement, as well as connect you with other resources or specialists if needed.
For patients with impetigo seeking high-quality, convenient, and affordable primary care, DPC is a great choice. With DPC, you will have a direct and personal relationship with your provider, who can help you manage your impetigo holistically and effectively.
“Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.”
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