Family Medicine Week 2025

Family physicians provide care to patients of all ages and health needs—from newborns to seniors. As we celebrate Family Medicine Week September 29-October 4, it’s a timely reminder to schedule a check-up with your family physician.

Everyone should have a family physician who knows and understands their health and who can provide clear, credible health guidance. 

Often, family physicians are the sole physicians providing care in their communities, especially in rural or underserved areas in Illinois. You’ll find family physicians across the state; they are in primary care practices, urgent care centers, community health centers, rural health centers, universities and more. We provide preventive care, chronic disease management and support, as well as mental health care and gender affirming care.  Simply put, family medicine means the right care in the right place for all people.

Research shows that Americans with a regular source of primary care enjoy greater access to healthcare and have better overall experiences with the healthcare system. They are more likely to fill prescriptions, have routine preventive care visits within the past year, and receive cancer screenings. Your relationship with a family physician is a wise investment, as the Commonwealth Center research found that adults who regularly see a primary care physician have 33% lower healthcare costs.

Family physicians are trusted sources of information for their patients, as misinformation and conflicting guidance cause confusion. With respiratory illness season ramping up, now is the time to check on your family’s health and make sure everyone is protected. Your family physician can answer any questions you have about vaccines and ways to stay healthy. This Family Medicine Week, and always, you can rely on the invaluable services family physicians provide and the support you need to make your own health a priority.