Primary Care: Building a trusting relationship

You can think of PCPs as general medical providers. They take care of your basic health needs and work with specialists if you require specialized care. Over time, your PCP gets to know you and your health history. This helps you get timely, accurate diagnoses and treatments that are just right for you.

When you need health care, most of the time you should start with your primary care provider and they can help you know where to go.

Call your provider if you're experiencing seasonal cold and flu symptoms like:

• Bronchitis or cough

• Cold or flu symptoms

• Diarrhea

• Ear infections

• Fever

• Headache

• Joint or muscle pain

• Nasal congestion

• Sore throat

If your symptoms are severe, go to the ER.

Video appointments with your primary care provider may also be an option.

Care Anywhere Urgent Care Video Visit in Wisconsin

If you are in Wisconsin and need quick access to a medical provider for symptoms like allergies, cold and flu symptoms, rashes or sore throats, Care Anywhere Urgent Care Video Visits may be an option. Learn more

Conditions we treat

We diagnose and treat a variety of conditions in primary care. These include:

• Chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and high blood pressure

• Conditions that come on suddenly, such as flu, sore throats or low back pain

• Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression

• Minor injuries, including sprained ankles, cuts and burns

Find tips for talking with your health care provider and how to prepare for your visit.

At UW Health, providers in various specialties deliver primary care. These include:

• Family medicine — Providers who treat people of all ages, from infants through older adults

• Geriatrics — Providers who specialize in the care of people 65 years of age and older

• Internal medicine — Providers who treat people older than 18 years of age

• Pediatric and adolescent medicine — Providers who treat people from infants through 18 years of age