Primary Care

Research shows that access to comprehensive primary care services can lead to improved health outcomes, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. With nearly 20 years of experience in primary care, Chris Sparkman, MD, Tabatha Mize, FNP, and the team provide individualized health screenings, treatment, and preventive care at their family medicine practice in Shenandoah, Texas. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is primary care?

Primary care is your main form of health care and your initial point of contact for addressing health concerns. From addressing new symptoms and managing chronic conditions to promoting preventive care and coordinating with specialists, your primary care provider is the medical professional you see most often. 

Having a primary care provider you trust and feel comfortable discussing your health with is essential to maintaining your overall health and well-being. With nearly 20 years of experience, Dr. Sparkman and his team strive to serve as partners in your care at Sparkman Family Medicine.

How is primary care different from seeing a specialist?

Primary care providers like Dr. Sparkman receive comprehensive training in a wide range of specialties to provide holistic (whole-body) care to patients of all ages. Whether you have a question about your medications, are due for a health screening, or have a sore throat, Dr. Sparkman and the primary care team can address your needs.

Specialists focus on one area of medicine, such as dermatology, cardiology, or oncology. They provide specialized care that delves deeply into specific medical concerns. If you have a condition or symptoms requiring testing or treatment beyond the scope of primary care, Dr. Sparkman can refer you to the appropriate provider.

What are the main examples of primary care?

Primary care includes many services for patients of all ages, including:

• Annual physicals
• Preventive health screenings
• Nutritional counseling
• Chronic disease management
• Vaccinations
• Mental health care
• Sick care
• Men’s and women’s health care
• Weight management
• Medication management and prescription refills
• Coordination of care with specialists

While your needs may change with age, having a primary care provider who tracks and monitors your health ensures that you receive continuous care.

How often should I see my primary care provider?

Scheduling routine checkups with Dr. Sparkman is essential to caring for your health. Some patients benefit from multiple visits a year, while others only need routine health screenings every year or two. 

Dr. Sparkman and the team can adjust your individualized care plan as needed to ensure that you receive the appropriate level of care based on your unique health needs and risk factors.

Call Sparkman Family Medicine today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about primary care.