With balancing work, family and a social life, it can be easy to put your health on the back burner — especially if nothing is noticeably wrong. However, primary care plays a critical role in wellness by preventing major issues from developing. BJC Medical Group is dedicated to expanding access to excellent care, so everyone can meet with a provider that fits their needs and lifestyle. For family medicine physician Dr. Caitlin Rogers, the health care system offers an exceptional opportunity to help patients stay happy, healthy and thriving.
Rogers has been with BJC Medical Group for six years. One of the biggest opportunities she’s had in the health care system is expanding its family medicine offerings. The care model allows continuing and comprehensive care for individuals across all age groups. “The traditional approach to patient care is focused on internal medicine, but BJC Medical Group has been working on bringing in more family medicine,” Rogers says. “I get to take care of patients from birth through their geriatric years. In some cases, I work with three or four generations of a family. I get to know the patients on a more personal level and offer them the best possible care.”
Working with BJC Medical Group has given Rogers more freedom to build her practice the way she wants it to be. The health care provider allows physicians to have a critical role in leadership, ensuring they can implement what is best for patients. “I’ve been able to offer more in-office procedures to reduce the number of referrals I have to make,” she notes. “I begin seeing patients in early pregnancy. I get to watch them grow first as newborns and then as pediatric patients. I take that relationship and knowledge into the college years and adulthood.”
Family medicine isn’t the only way that BJC Medical Group is improving access to care across the St. Louis region. The health care system offers concierge services for patients who want more direct access to their physician. Technology also plays a vital role in connecting more people with medical services. “While it is important to have face-to-face meetings with a primary care provider, virtual and telehealth options help expand access,” Rogers explains. “Patients with a busy work schedule can consult through a call, or college students can meet with their doctors through an e-visit. With today’s technology, we can offer even more options for convenient care that puts patients’ individual needs first.”
At BJC Medical Group, primary care is much more than just treating illness. The health care system allows physicians to connect with patients and become partners in their overall well-being—from monitoring existing conditions to addressing mental health concerns. “A big part of primary care is preventative, and our providers meet with patients regularly and discuss health and wellness, so we are aware of specific problems that may arise,” Rogers says. “Everyone needs a primary care physician. Our health is so much more than just physical wellness, and working with the right doctor is a great starting point for addressing each facet.”
BJC Medical Group internal and family medicine providers are accepting new patients. To find one that meets your needs and to schedule an appointment, visit bjc.org/primarycaredoc or call 314.978.0089. Pictured on the cover, clockwise from top left: Nicole Burdge, F.N.P; Vinay Kamat, M.D; Lilac Khojasteh, M.D; Caitlin Rogers, D.O.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at top: Dr. Caitlin Rogers works with a patient
Photo: Tim Parker Photography
