The Role of Direct Primary Care in Managing Diabetes and Obesity

The Role of Direct Primary Care in Managing Diabetes and Obesity

Managing diabetes and obesity can feel overwhelming. Between frequent doctor visits, confusing treatment plans, and the rising costs of care, many patients struggle to find consistent, supportive guidance. That’s where direct primary care (DPC) steps in, providing a simpler, more personalized way to manage these chronic conditions without the red tape of traditional insurance.

Primary Care and Diabetes: More Than Just Checkups

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can a primary care physician treat diabetes?”, the answer is yes. In fact, primary care physicians are often the first line of defense in diagnosing, treating, and managing diabetes.

Through diabetes management in primary care, patients get consistent monitoring of blood sugar levels, medication adjustments when needed, and lifestyle coaching to prevent complications. Unlike rushed, once-a-year visits, DPC allows for more frequent touchpoints with your doctor, meaning your treatment plan can adapt as your needs change.

Having a primary care physician for diabetes also ensures care doesn’t happen in silos. Instead, your doctor knows your full health history, medications, and lifestyle factors, which helps create a more holistic treatment approach.

Obesity Management in Primary Care: Compassion First

Obesity is often misunderstood and oversimplified. But in reality, it’s a complex condition influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle, not just “willpower.” Patients deserve obesity management in primary care that goes beyond generic advice.

In a DPC model, your doctor can spend the time it takes to truly understand your challenges and goals. Whether it’s treating obesity in primary care with nutrition counseling, medication support, or personalized exercise plans, the focus is on creating a plan that works for you.

So, how is obesity treated? It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. In direct primary care, treatment can include:

  • Regular coaching and accountability from your physician

  • Lab testing to identify underlying metabolic or hormonal issues

  • Guidance on sustainable nutrition and activity, not fad diets

  • Referrals to specialists when necessary, without losing your doctor’s ongoing support

This patient-centered approach turns obesity care into a long-term partnership rather than a frustrating cycle of trial and error.

Why Direct Primary Care Changes the Game

The challenge with traditional healthcare is that appointments are short, rushed, and often expensive. Patients managing diabetes and obesity need regular, ongoing care, something the insurance-driven system isn’t designed to deliver.

Direct primary care membership gives you unlimited access to your doctor through visits, phone calls, or texts. That means you don’t have to wait months for an appointment if you notice a change in your blood sugar, weight, or overall health. You have a trusted physician by your side, ready to adjust your care plan quickly and with empathy.

Take Control of Your Health with Burkhart Direct Family Care

At Burkhart Direct Family Care, we believe managing diabetes and obesity should never feel like navigating the healthcare system alone. Our DPC family medicine approach gives patients the time, support, and expertise they deserve to thrive.

If you’re ready for a more personal, consistent, and cost-effective approach to diabetes and obesity care, we’d love to be part of your journey.

Suite 302
9724 Kingston Pike
Knoxville, TN 37922
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601 W Broadway St.
Lenoir City, TN  37771
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Mon -Fri, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
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