Your primary care provider is arguably the most important relationship you will have in your lifetime outside of your family. They are your first line of defense against illness, your guide through complex medical decisions, and your advocate in the broader healthcare system. But with so many options available, how do you make the right choice?
Choosing a primary care provider requires evaluating a physician’s board certifications, their experience with your specific age group or chronic conditions, and the logistical convenience of their clinic. For aging adults, selecting a Board-Certified Geriatrician ensures that your doctor has the specialized training required to manage complex medications and age-related health changes effectively.
At Kingsway Medical Center in El Paso, Dr. Adekunle Adedeji and our Family Nurse Practitioner, Lizet Carrillo, understand that trust must be earned. We believe that an informed patient makes the best decisions, which is why we have put together this guide to help you choose the primary care provider that is perfectly suited for you and your family.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Primary Care Provider
Choosing a doctor shouldn’t be based solely on who pops up first on Google Maps. It requires a thoughtful evaluation of your personal health needs and the provider’s specific expertise.
1. Board Certification and Specialty Training
Any licensed physician can practice general medicine, but Board Certification indicates that a doctor has gone through rigorous, additional testing in a specific specialty. Dr. Adedeji is Board Certified in both Family Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. This dual certification means he is an expert at treating the entire family, while possessing elite, specialized knowledge in the care of aging adults.
2. The Clinic’s Support Team
A great doctor is only as good as their support staff. When evaluating a clinic, look at the entire team. At Kingsway, we are incredibly proud of Lizet Carrillo, NP. With over a decade of acute ER experience, she brings a critical, fast-acting perspective to our family practice, ensuring that urgent needs are met with emergency-level expertise.
3. Approach to Preventative Care
Does the doctor simply write prescriptions for your symptoms, or do they investigate the root cause? The best primary care providers emphasize preventative care. They should proactively schedule you for blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings, and cancer screenings to stop illnesses before they start.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When interviewing a new primary care provider, pay attention to the environment and the communication style. Consider it a red flag if:
- The provider interrupts you frequently or doesn’t allow you to finish explaining your symptoms.
- The clinic staff is dismissive or difficult to reach by phone.
- The doctor routinely orders expensive tests without explaining why they are necessary.
- They do not ask about your family medical history or lifestyle habits during your initial visit.
Why Kingsway Medical Center Stands Out in El Paso
We know you have choices when it comes to healthcare in El Paso. Our clinic was founded on the principle that every patient deserves compassionate, comprehensive, and unhurried care.
Dr. Adedeji’s extensive research in the management of diabetics and the care of nursing home residents means that our most vulnerable populations are in the safest possible hands. We do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you need a simple school physical or complex management of multiple chronic illnesses, our team tailors every single treatment plan to the individual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What questions should I ask a new primary care provider?
Ask about their experience treating your specific conditions, their approach to preventative medicine, how they handle after-hours emergencies, and their typical communication style (e.g., do they use a patient portal?).
Can I change my primary care provider if I am not happy?
Absolutely. You are the CEO of your own health. If you feel unheard or unsatisfied with the level of care you are receiving, you have every right to request your medical records and switch to a new provider.
What is the difference between a Family Physician and an Internal Medicine doctor?
Family physicians are trained to treat patients of all ages (pediatrics to geriatrics), while Internal Medicine doctors (internists) typically only treat adults.
Should I see a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or a Doctor?
Both provide excellent care. NPs like Lizet Carrillo undergo rigorous clinical training and are highly qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for a wide range of conditions, often working collaboratively with physicians like Dr. Adedeji.
Do I really need a primary care provider if I am healthy?
Yes. A primary care provider establishes a baseline of your health, making it much easier to detect subtle changes over time. They also ensure you stay up to date on crucial preventative screenings and immunizations.
Partner With Us for a Healthier Future
Your health is too important to leave to chance. If you are looking for a primary care home that values expertise, compassion, and comprehensive care, schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Adekunle Adedeji or Lizet Carrillo, NP, at Kingsway Medical Center today.
Learn More from the Experts:
Click here to watch an expert video on choosing the right doctor.
*Disclaimer: The information provided in this article and any accompanying videos is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider at Kingsway Medical Center with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
