Erin DeLaney, M.D. Debbie and Johnny Scogin have been UAB Family Medicine patients since the mid-1980s. The Scogins were patients of Robert E. Kynerd, M.D., for 20 years, once he retired he referred them to Erin DeLaney, M.D., a family medicine physician, vice-chair for clinical affairs and quality, assistant professor and medical director for the Department of Family and Community at UAB Medicine-Highlands. 

The Scogins have been with DeLaney ever since and their relationship highlights the importance of finding and developing a strong connection with a primary care provider. Primary care physicians are a frontline resource for a stronger and healthier life and have a big impact on the health of their patients and communities.

“Over time, as we hear our patients' stories and become part of their lives, we understand better their needs, goals, determinants, and preferences, which allows us to provide the right care at the right time,” DeLaney said. “This is precision medicine at its most basic level”.

Physicians become familiar with patient medical history, lifestyle, and every day needs.

“Dr. DeLaney is family to us,” said Debbie Scogin. “My mother was a patient of Dr. Kynerd's also and is now a patient of Dr. DeLaney's, and our 16-year-old daughter is talking about switching over to Dr. DeLaney too.”

Primary care practitioners often treat several generations of the same family, as DeLaney does with the Scogins. DeLaney has built long-term relationships with the Scogins. She is aware of their daily lives, medical history and what works best for them.

“We never feel rushed or hurried when we have an appointment with her. She is someone that we can be honest and open with about anything and everything,” Scogin said.

(top) Debbie and Johnny Scogin and family

She recalled several instances where DeLaney went out of her way to make the family feel comfortable and welcome, including after Debbie Scogin had unexpected back surgery in August 2019.

“The day after my surgery the phone in my room rang, and it was Dr. DeLaney herself calling me to check on me,” she said.

She also really listens to her patients, Scogin said.

“She is patient with us, she takes the time to listen to what we have to say or ask her,” said Scogin. “She is very caring & listens to everything you have to say and she asks you for your opinion about what you think about what she says regarding what she believes you need to do for your health.”

Relationships with patients matter, and patients will be more willing to follow care guidelines if they have a welcoming provider. Two-way communication is crucial for a strong long-lasting patient relationship.

“A strong patient-physician relationship, built on mutual trust and respect, is critical to being able to provide good primary care,” DeLaney said.

Written by Kenia Hernandez