Dr. Desi Avila and the team at Ironwood Urology are professionals in the care and upkeep of your urinary system and the male reproductive system. While we are your go-to specialists in the field of urology, there are certain ailments or conditions you may require your primary care physician (PCP) for instead. Similarly, you may think to see your physician about an issue that is better treated by a urology specialist.
So when exactly should you see your PCP and when should you stop into Ironwood Urology? Your primary care physician specializes in general medicine, and they are very knowledgeable about a wide range of conditions. They may have completed advanced training in urology, but they are often unable to perform certain tests that are necessary for a proper diagnosis or provide the required treatment for your condition.
Your PCP focuses on preventative care and makes sure that you have appropriate screenings and tests regularly. However, if testing comes back positive for a urological condition that your PCP is unfamiliar with or is unable to provide the appropriate treatment for, a visit to an urologist like Dr. Avila is necessary. While some insurance providers allow you to go directly to a specialist, the majority of plans require a referral from your primary care physician.
Urologists including Dr. Avila specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of many common men’s health conditions including:
- Male infertility
- Recurrent UTIs
- Prostatitis
- Erectile dysfunction
- Prostate and bladder cancers
- Incontinence
- Low T / hormone deficiency
If you suffer from any of these conditions, your PCP will likely refer you to a specialist for more advanced treatment. Additionally, you may be referred for surgical services for men, such as vasectomy or vasectomy reversal, as these are not procedures that primary care providers perform. Your PCP will also refer you to us once you are old enough to begin having your annual prostate exam.
The best thing you could do for your health is to find yourself a great primary care physician and urologist, and then see them regularly. Also, make sure to communicate or have your doctor’s office communicate any and all visits with specialists, including tests and imaging performed. This will ensure that your doctors including Dr. Avila keep an accurate and complete medical history record and can more reliably diagnose or refer you in the future.
Are you suffering from a chronic condition such as sexual dysfunction? Need an annual prostate exam? Talk to your primary care physician today and ask for a referral to board-certified urologist in the Phoenix region. Request an appointment online or call (480) 961-2323 to schedule your first exam.
