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Benefits of having a family physician recognized during Family Medicine Week in Michigan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 20, 2018

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112 

LANSING, Mich. – During Family Medicine Week in Michigan, Michiganders are encouraged to have a relationship with a family physician or build one to maintain the health and wellness of themselves and their families.

Gov. Rick Snyder has declared Feb. 18-24, 2018 as Family Medicine Week in Michigan in partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Michigan Academy of Family Physicians (MAFP).

The weeklong observance highlights family physicians’ dedication to providing high quality, patient-centered primary care to Michiganders across the state to help them maintain health and wellness, and to reduce costs to the healthcare system. Research shows that adults and children with a family physician as their regular source of care have lower annual costs of care, visit the doctor less, are prescribed fewer medications and report less difficulty accessing care.

“Having a family doctor is good for the health of individuals, families, communities and the state as a whole,” said Dr. Eden Wells, MDHHS chief medical executive. “Visiting your family physician for regular check-ups can help you stay healthy and prevent illness. If you do get sick, your family doctor can help you get healthy or provide the best referrals when another specialist’s care is needed.”

In addition, family physicians can help patients manage chronic, long-term illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease or asthma. The fact they are integrated into their communities also makes them a valuable resource for connecting individuals with local health and social services, Wells added.

This year’s Family Medicine Week observance in Michigan is extra special for MAFP, as the organization is celebrating its 70th year of supporting family physicians across the state. As the state’s largest specialty physician organization, MAFP is the voice for more than 4,200 family doctors, family medicine residents and medical students in Michigan.

To learn more about Michigan Academy of Family Physicians, visit Mafp.com.

 

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