In men as they age, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) becomes more common. In this condition, the prostate gland presses on the urethra, which carries urine from the bladder to the penis, when it grows larger than normal. Urination problems may result from this, such as difficulty starting or stopping the flow, frequent or urgent needs to go, weak streams, dribbling, or incomplete bladder emptying. Urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and kidney damage can also be associated with BPH.
The doctor may also perform tests such as urine tests, blood tests, prostate-specific antigen tests, rectal exams, or ultrasounds to diagnose BPH. Treatment options for BPH vary depending on the severity of the symptoms, the size of the prostate, and the patient’s preferences and overall health. Medications, surgery, and minimally invasive procedures can be used to treat BPH.
There may be challenges for many men with BPH to access quality primary care, including high costs, long wait times, and inadequate insurance coverage. They may not be able to receive the regular follow-up and monitoring they need, which can delay diagnosis or treatment. Direct primary care (DPC) is an alternative primary care model that can help men with BPH manage their condition more effectively and conveniently.
In exchange for a monthly or annual fee, primary care physicians are able to offer their services directly to their patients through direct primary care (DPC), without an insurance company in the middle. It covers all or most primary care services, such as consultations, exams, care coordination, and some lab services, with no additional charge at the time of service.
There are several ways in which DPC can help men with BPH:
With a DPC, your physician will spend more time and attention with you. DPC physicians typically have fewer patients than traditional primary care physicians, so they can spend more time with each individual. As a result, you can receive a faster and more accurate diagnosis of BPH, as well as a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Often, DPC practices offer extended hours, same-day appointments, and minimal wait times, making them more convenient and accessible. Telehealth services, such as phone calls, emails, or video chats, are also available at DPC practices, so you can access care from anywhere and anytime. It can save you from unnecessary trips to the clinic or emergency room, and provide you with timely advice and support for your BPH symptoms.
DPC practices do not accept insurance or participate in government programs, which means they do not have to deal with the paperwork and bureaucracy that often inflate health care costs. Moreover, they provide clear and upfront pricing for their services, so you can know exactly what you are paying for and what you are getting. This can help you save money on your BPH care, as well as avoid surprise bills and hidden fees.
If you choose DPC for your BPH care, you can enjoy several benefits that can improve your health and well-being:
The DPC team can provide you with high-quality care tailored to your needs and preferences to help you achieve better outcomes for BPH. Also, DPC offers continuity of care, so you can develop a lasting relationship with your doctor who understands your medical history and your goals while building a trusting and lasting relationship with him or her. By doing so, you can prevent complications or progression of your BPH, as well as improve your overall health.
By giving you more control over your health care decisions, DPC can help you achieve greater satisfaction with your BPH care. Your doctor can match your personality and values, respect your autonomy, and respect your privacy. Additionally, you can communicate with your physician in the way that suits you best, whether it is in person, over the phone, or online. It can make you feel more empowered and engaged in your health care journey, as well as more comfortable and confident about your BPH care.
In order to improve your quality of life, DPC can provide you with more convenience and flexibility for your BPH treatment. You don't have to worry about insurance or bureaucracy when you need care, where you need it, or how you need it. In addition, you will have more peace of mind knowing that you have a physician who is always there for you and cares about you. By doing so, you can reduce stress and anxiety associated with your BPH condition, as well as improve your emotional and mental well-being.
Here are some steps you can take if you are interested in exploring DPC for your BPH management:
Check out online directories and websites to find DPC practices in your area that offer the services and amenities you need. You can also ask family or friends who have experience with DPC for recommendations.
Make contact with the DPC practice of your choice and schedule a consultation. You can learn more about the DPC model and how it works by meeting the physician and staff, touring the facility, and learning more about the DPC model. You can also ask any questions you have about the membership fee, the included services, the cancellation policy, and the privacy policy.
If you want your BPH care, sign up for a DPC membership. You can join a DPC practice and sign a contract that outlines your membership's terms and conditions once you decide to join. You can then receive care for your BPH, along with any other primary care needs you may have. You can also cancel your membership at any time if you are not satisfied with the service or the results.
In the words of a famous quote, “Health is a state of complete well-being, not just the absence of disease or infirmity.” By choosing DPC for your BPH management, you can invest in your health and reap the rewards of better outcomes, greater satisfaction, and better quality of life. By taking control of your BPH condition, DPC can help you live a happier and healthier life.
