Primary Care Physician

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At Alfredo Ermac Jr, MD, in Houston, TX, our primary care services are centered on building long-term relationships with patients while providing personalized, comprehensive medical care. As your primary point of contact for health concerns, our team focuses on prevention, early detection, and treatment to help you achieve and maintain lasting wellness.
What Is a Primary Care Physician?
A primary care physician (PCP) is a medical doctor who provides general healthcare for patients of all ages. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of medical conditions, while also coordinating specialist care when needed. Your PCP is your partner in health, guiding you through preventive care, managing chronic illnesses, and addressing everyday concerns.
How Primary Care Works
Primary care begins with regular checkups, during which your physician evaluates your overall health, reviews your medical history, and recommends screenings or tests as appropriate. When health issues arise, your PCP provides diagnosis and treatment, or refers you to a specialist if advanced care is needed. This ongoing relationship ensures continuity of care and a proactive approach to maintaining your well-being.
Conditions Treated by a Primary Care Physician
Primary care physicians address both acute issues and chronic conditions, while also focusing on prevention.
Common conditions include:
- Colds, flu, and minor infections
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Diabetes and pre-diabetes
- High cholesterol and heart disease risk
- Asthma and allergies
- Thyroid and hormonal imbalances
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Preventive screenings (cancer, cardiovascular, etc.)

How often should I see my primary care physician?
Most adults benefit from annual checkups, with additional visits as needed for health concerns or chronic condition management.
Can my PCP manage chronic conditions?
Yes—your PCP can monitor and manage conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and asthma, often in coordination with specialists.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
In many cases, yes—your PCP provides referrals to ensure you see the right specialist for your needs.
What’s the difference between a primary care doctor and urgent care?
Primary care provides long-term, relationship-based healthcare, while urgent care is designed for immediate, one-time needs.
