1 in 3 Americans do not have primary care provider

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Did you know, having a primary care doctor can help you live longer? Well, a recent report says roughly one-third of Americans don’t have one.

It’s National Primary Care Week, a time to spotlight the role these doctors play in keeping their communities healthy. A primary care doctor is often your first stop for yearly checkups, chronic conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure, and preventive care.

Research shows people who regularly see their primary care doctor are more likely to catch serious issues early and are less likely to end up in the ER or hospital. Studies even link primary care to longer life expectancy and lower healthcare costs over time.

Dr. Monalisa Tailor with Norton Healthcare says, “First off, it’s a relationship. It’s something that’s goi