An infection with bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus (Staph), causes folliculitis. Folliculitis occurs when hair follicles become inflamed. Often, it affects the face, arms, upper back, and lower legs, but it can occur anywhere you have hair. Itchy, sore, or embarrassing, foliculitis can cause small bumps or pimples around the hair follicles. The infection can spread to cause crusty sores if left untreated. Folliculitis that is mild usually heals without scarring in a few days with basic self-care. More severe and repeat infections may require prescription medicine. Left untreated, severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.
You might want to consider joining a direct primary care (DPC) practice if you suffer from folliculitis or are prone to it. A DPC is a business model in which primary care physicians offer their services directly to patients—without having to deal with insurance companies. Membership fees cover a variety of primary care services, including consultations, exams, care coordination, and some lab tests. In addition, DPC allows patients to communicate with their physicians by phone, email, or video chat.
Typically, DPC physicians have fewer patients than traditional primary care physicians. Thus, they can spend more time with each patient and provide a more comprehensive and personalized service. There is no need to worry about copays or deductibles when visiting your physician.
You can reach out to your physician at any time if you have questions or concerns about your condition or treatment. DPC physicians are more accessible and responsive to their patients' needs. From the comfort of your home or workplace, you can also use telehealth services to receive care.
DPC memberships are usually affordable and transparent. You know exactly what is included in your membership fee and what you are paying for. In addition to saving money on medications, lab tests, imaging studies, and referrals, your DPC physician offers discounts on these items.
DPC physicians specialize in preventative care and wellness. They can help you identify and treat underlying causes of your folliculitis, such as allergies, immune system problems, or skin infections. To improve your condition and prevent recurrence, they can also offer lifestyle counseling, nutrition counseling, skin care education, and folliculitis management strategies.
A DPC physician can coordinate your care with other specialists and health care providers, so you receive the best care possible.
Consider joining a DPC practice if you have folliculitis or are at risk of developing it. DPC physicians can provide you with personalized, holistic care that addresses your physical, mental, and emotional needs.
Find out what your condition is and what your treatment options are
Keep a close eye on your symptoms and treatment response
As needed, adjust your medication dosage and frequency
In case of side effects or complications, manage them
Educate you on how to prevent recurrence or worsening of folliculitis
Make you more self-aware and empowered
With a DPC practice, you can get to know your physician better and receive more individualized treatment for your folliculitis, as Hippocrates said: "What sort of person has a disease is more important than what sort of disease a person has."
Previous Post
