Rochelle Community Hospital Urges Residents to Establish Primary Care

Rochelle Community Hospital (RCH) is actively promoting the significance of establishing a relationship with a general health provider through its Family Healthcare Clinic. The hospital aims to raise awareness about the benefits of having a primary care physician, which can lead to better overall health outcomes for individuals and families in the community.

According to Graham Isaacson, D.O., a physician at RCH, the clinic currently has openings for new patients. Services available include annual check-ups, blood work, immunizations, and a consistent care base for both sudden and chronic illnesses. “Having a primary care provider allows for early detection and treatment of diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure,” Isaacson stated on August 25, 2023. He emphasized the importance of preventative care, noting that many conditions can remain asymptomatic until they escalate into more serious health issues.

Regular check-ups are essential, even for those who feel healthy. Isaacson pointed out that he has encountered numerous patients who, after not seeing a doctor for decades, were diagnosed with significant health issues that had gone undetected. “You might feel perfectly fine, but underlying conditions like high cholesterol or hypertension can be present,” he explained. Early detection allows for timely interventions, reducing the risk of severe complications such as strokes or heart attacks.

Isaacson joined the RCH Family Healthcare Clinic approximately one year ago and has been actively building his practice. Alongside him, Kristi Gonzales, a new physician assistant, is also establishing her patient base. The increased number of healthcare providers in the clinic helps alleviate pressure on RCH’s emergency and convenient care services, potentially reducing wait times for patients seeking immediate attention.

“Many people visit the emergency room for non-emergency issues,” Isaacson noted. “Having a primary care provider for same-day appointments can significantly benefit both the patient and the hospital. It’s often more cost-effective to see a primary care physician compared to an emergency room visit.” This proactive approach not only streamlines care but also enhances patient satisfaction.

RCH offers a range of specialist services, including cardiology, nephrology, podiatry, dermatology, and urology. Primary care providers can facilitate referrals to these specialists, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care. Additionally, RCH has recently launched a behavioral health clinic, further expanding the services available to the community.

Isaacson values the relationships he builds with his patients, stating, “I know my patients well, and they know what to expect from me. This familiarity enhances the quality of care.” He highlighted that consistent check-ups can prevent minor health issues from evolving into more serious conditions that require extensive treatment. For instance, regulating high blood pressure with appropriate medication early on can prevent the need for multiple drugs later or, more critically, avert strokes or heart attacks.

Despite the clear benefits, Isaacson recognizes that various factors often deter individuals from seeking routine medical care. Concerns about costs, lack of time, and issues of trust can prevent people from establishing a primary care relationship. To address these concerns, RCH is implementing evening hours to accommodate patients with busy schedules.

The importance of routine check-ups cannot be overstated, especially for high-risk conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which can lead to severe complications if left unchecked. “I frequently see patients who have delayed seeking care, and by the time they do, the conditions are often advanced,” Isaacson remarked. He reassures the community that they will not be judged for their healthcare history; instead, the focus is on identifying health needs and starting appropriate treatment.

Rochelle Community Hospital continues to emphasize the critical role of primary care in maintaining community health. By encouraging residents to establish a relationship with a general health provider, RCH aims to foster a healthier community, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all.