As we get older, our physical health, social needs and mental well-being evolve. Navigating these changes can be challenging, but having a strong relationship with a primary care provider can help guide you along the way and ensure you receive the right care at the right time when you experience health issues.

“Visiting your primary care provider regularly is one of the most important things you can do to stay healthy,” said Dr. Robert Zorowitz, an expert in geriatric medicine and Humana’s Regional Vice President of Health Services. “Having a longstanding relationship with a doctor who knows you helps them better understand what’s important to you.”

Here are the top four reasons Dr. Zorowitz says having a primary care provider is the key to better health for older adults.

1. Comprehensive, consistent care

With age often comes changes in physical function and cognitive health. Regular primary care appointments help in better prevention and healthcare maintenance. Primary care providers are trained to diagnose and treat various conditions, from acute illnesses, like infections, to chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. Consistent, ongoing visits allow your doctor to monitor changes in your health over time, making it easier to detect patterns, address concerns promptly, and help prevent minor issues from becoming more serious problems.

2. Personalized health management

A primary care provider who knows you can tailor care to your personal needs and priorities, which can significantly impact your longevity and quality of life. They can use your medical history, family history and lifestyle to create a customized care plan, which may include regular check-ups, preventive screenings, and management of chronic conditions. They can also help oversee your medications, helping you avoid harmful interactions. This individualized approach may provide the most appropriate and effective treatments for your health needs.

3. Proactive preventive care

Early detection of potential health issues is one of the most effective ways to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life as you age. Your primary care provider can help ensure you receive the right screenings and vaccinations, addressing your health holistically. Typical screenings for those 65 and over include diabetes, depression, cardiovascular disease, glaucoma, and various cancers. Many of these screenings are covered for Medicare beneficiaries, whether you have traditional Medicare or Medicare Advantage, making them accessible and affordable.

4. Coordination with specialists

When specialized care is needed, your primary care provider can act as a coordinator, helping you receive the appropriate referrals and follow-up care. In value-based care practices in particular, the primary care provider serves as the quarterback of your care team, coordinating with specialists, nurses, pharmacists and anyone else involved in your treatment. This coordination helps ensure various aspects of your health are considered and close gaps in care.

Value-based care is a healthcare model used in Medicare Advantage that focuses on proactive, preventive care to address issues early and improve long-term outcomes for patients. It rewards providers for the quality and efficiency of care a patient receives rather than by claims filed for the number of tests or procedures performed.

“Instead of reacting to illnesses, with value-based care, we emphasize prevention, communication and trust to keep patients healthy longer,” Dr. Zorowitz said. “It often means patients spend more time with their primary care provider and less time in the hospital.”

Finding the right primary care provider

Your primary care provider is more than just a doctor; they are a partner in your health journey.

“Having a primary care provider who works with you and understands your personal health goals and care preferences will make a huge difference in how you are treated and your satisfaction with your care,” Dr. Zorowitz said.

As you age and your health needs change, your care needs may also change. Senior-focused primary care providers are growing across the country to provide value-based care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. A recent study showed that patients in senior focused primary care organizations had better access to care when compared to other types of primary care organizations, like the traditional fee-for-service model.

If you don’t have a primary care provider or are interested in switching, your insurance carrier is there to help you navigate your care. They can help you find a doctor in your network, which can lower your out-of-pocket costs. Call the number on the back of your insurance card for assistance or look up providers on your carrier’s website. Humana members can learn more about value-based care and find a primary care provider in their area at Humana.com.