Think of your primary care provider as a coach for your overall health—someone who knows your history, understands your goals, and can guide you through both routine care and unexpected challenges. But if you haven’t found a provider you connect with, it’s tempting to put off that first visit, especially when you’re feeling fine.
When life is busy and you’re healthy, visiting the doctor might not feel urgent—until a symptom or illness forces you to seek care.
“For people who are young and healthy, I get it,” says Dr. Ashley Gullett, family medicine physician at The Iowa Clinic – Ankeny. “But what seems like a small concern can turn into something more complicated. That’s when having a provider you already know really matters.”
A trusted provider offers more than just check-ups. They help you stay ahead of potential health concerns, manage ongoing conditions, and coordinate care with specialists when needed. And when you’ve already built that relationship, it’s much easier—and far less stressful—to make your health a priority.
Why It’s Worth Finding a Primary Care Doctor Now
Even if you’re not currently facing health problems, building a relationship with a provider is an investment in your future well-being. Having someone who knows your medical history, understands your risk factors, and can track your health over time puts you in a stronger position to stay healthy.
“Your primary care doctor is your healthcare home base,” says Dr. Gullett. “We’re here for everything from preventative screenings to managing chronic conditions and partnering with specialists when appropriate.”
Scheduling that first visit when you’re well—such as a physical exam—establishes a baseline for your health and makes it easier to spot changes early.
How Often Should You See Your Doctor?
Your age, health, and medical history will guide how often you should visit your provider:
- Infants & Young Children – Frequent visits for check-ups, growth tracking, and immunizations as recommended by a pediatrician or family medicine provider.
- Children & Teens – Annual exams, with additional visits as needed based on individual health concerns.
- Adults – Every other year at minimum, but ideally once a year—especially if you have risk factors or a family history of certain conditions.
- Older Adults – Annual visits are essential; more frequent appointments if managing chronic illnesses such as hypertension or diabetes.
“When you have a good relationship with your provider, you’re less likely to skip your annual visits,” says Dr. Gullett. “And that’s when it’s easier to catch things early.”
How to Know if a Doctor is the Right Fit for You
Your first appointment is about more than lab results or blood pressure readings—it’s about connection. Do you feel comfortable asking questions? Does the provider listen and explain things in a way that makes sense to you?
“You want a doctor who listens, explains options clearly, and works with you to find a plan that fits your needs and values,” says Dr. Gullett. “Health conversations should be easy to understand and open-ended.”
The right provider should feel like a partner in your healthcare journey—someone who will help you navigate challenges and connect you with specialists when needed.
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
To make your first visit as productive as possible, bring:
- A list of medications and dosages
- Significant personal medical history
- Family medical history, if available
- Past medical records, or a request to have them transferred from your previous clinic
Why Choose The Iowa Clinic for Primary Care?
At The Iowa Clinic, you’ll find pediatricians, family medicine doctors, and internal medicine providers dedicated to building lasting relationships with patients and families.
“We have an incredible team of physicians who are passionate about patient care,” says Dr. Gullett. “We know trust and consistency are key to good health.”
The Iowa Clinic’s coordinated care model ensures your medical history is easily accessible across providers and departments, making communication seamless.