EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. — Community members gathered this week for a special Lunch & Learn seminar titled “Your Health Starts Here: The Importance of a Primary Care Physician,” led by Dr. Heather Wilson, DO, a family medicine physician at Excelsior Springs Hospital. The interactive discussion highlighted why establishing care with a primary doctor is one of the most important steps toward maintaining lifelong health.
The First Line of Defense for Your Health
Dr. Wilson began by explaining the role of a primary care provider (PCP) as the “first line of defense” in health care — the person patients should see first for any non-emergency concern. Family medicine doctors, internists, and pediatricians all serve as primary care physicians depending on the patient’s age and health needs.
“Your primary care doctor is your quarterback,” Dr. Wilson said. “We coordinate care, manage your overall health, and connect you to specialists when needed.” She added that regular checkups and preventive care visits are essential to catching potential issues early — from high blood pressure and diabetes to thyroid and mental health conditions.
Understanding Different Types of Providers
Dr. Wilson also took time to clarify the differences between medical degrees and provider roles. She explained that both MDs (Doctors of Medicine) and DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) are fully licensed physicians who complete four years of medical school and at least three years of residency.
While both treat and diagnose patients, DOs receive additional training in hands-on techniques that combine elements of physical therapy and chiropractic care. “We focus on the mind, body, and spirit,” she said. “We learn all the same medicine MDs do, but we also learn how to treat with our hands.”
She also outlined how nurse practitioners (NPs) fit into the health care system, describing how physicians and NPs often collaborate to ensure comprehensive care for patients. “We all work as a team,” Wilson explained. “Nurse practitioners bring a wealth of patient-focused experience, and physicians provide oversight for more complex cases or controlled medications.”
Access to Care for All
When asked about care for uninsured or homeless patients, Dr. Wilson emphasized the hospital’s commitment to accessibility. “Health should be a standard across the board,” she said. “It shouldn’t matter what you drive, where you live, or how much money you make.”
She explained that Excelsior Springs Hospital offers assistance through social workers who help patients apply for Medicaid or other financial aid programs, and that the clinic accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most major insurance plans.
Establishing Care and Staying Connected
Dr. Wilson encouraged attendees to take an active role in their health by scheduling a primary care appointment — even when they feel well. Establishing care allows providers to build a health history, monitor trends, and respond quickly when issues arise.
During an initial visit, patients can expect to review their medical history, transfer records from previous providers, refill medications, and schedule preventive screenings such as mammograms and colonoscopies.
“Once you’re established, everything runs smoother — from sick visits to follow-up care,” Wilson said. “It also means that if you’re ever hospitalized, your primary care doctor already has your background and can coordinate your care effectively.”
A Growing Team at Excelsior Springs Hospital
Dr. Wilson and her husband, Dr. Kevin Garten, both DOs, practice together at the Excelsior Springs Hospital Primary Care Clinic, where the team now includes three physicians and five nurse practitioners. Dr. Garten is currently accepting new patients, while some of the clinic’s long-time physicians, like Dr. Pickett, have reached full patient panels due to high demand.
The clinic also operates a satellite location in Lawson, expanding access to surrounding communities.
To learn more or to establish care with a provider, contact the Excelsior Springs Hospital Primary Care Clinic at (816) 630-6081.
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