Public Health chief medical officer talks critical role of primary care

As Primary Care Week draws to a close, private and public clinics reflect on its significance. KUAM spoke to a local healthcare professional, who emphasizes that primary care's importance transcends beyond just this week.

It’s your first line of defense and the foundation of your healthcare, as Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero said, “Primary care is the backbone of medical care.” As the chief medical officer of Public Health puts it, primary care is essential.

From prevention, as he said, “Primary care physicians monitor patients’ health, offering advice that slows the progression of diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease," to detecting diseases like breast cancer early. “The importance of breast self-exams as teenagers–especially if it runs in the family," he added.

As Primary Care Week concludes, its crucial role is emphasized, as people worldwide unite to raise awareness about cancers affecting both women and men. This year alone, research estimates 310,720 new invasive breast cancers will be diagnosed among women in the U.S. and an additional 2,790 in men.

 “Especially if there’s family history–it’s really important they get checked and get checked as early as possible–when the breast cancer is smaller, it’s easier to treat–less complications," he said.

While this is vital, Leon Guerrero recognizes the many barriers people face in accessing primary care and the need for more healthcare professionals.

“I wish we had more–more clinics, more doctors, more access–but those who are doing their duties now–they’re doing an excellent job," he added.

A crucial role that Leon Guerrero encourages them to continue.