Primary care in Beckley, West Virginia refers to the essential healthcare services provided by a doctor or nurse practitioner as a first point of contact for medical needs. This may include general checkups, diagnosis and treatment of acute illnesses, and management of chronic conditions.
Primary care providers play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of individuals by providing preventive care, early detection of health issues, and coordination of specialized care. The key historical development of primary care in Beckley, West Virginia was the establishment of the Beckley Area Health Education Center (AHEC) in 1972, which aimed to address the shortage of healthcare professionals and improve access to primary care services in the region.