Which of the following is a preventive service family physicians provide?

The provision of preventive services is a fundamental aspect of family medicine, and screenings and vaccinations play a crucial role in improving patient health outcomes and reducing the incidence of disease. Family physicians engage in preventive care by performing regular health assessments, identifying risk factors, and offering vaccinations to prevent infectious diseases.

Screenings can include tests such as cholesterol checks, blood pressure measurements, and cancer screenings (like mammograms or colonoscopies), which help in the early detection of conditions. Vaccinations protect against various preventable diseases, contributing to individual health and community immunity. This proactive approach not only benefits patients directly but also supports public health initiatives by controlling the spread of diseases.

The other options represent services that do not primarily focus on prevention. Emergency care addresses immediate health issues rather than preventative strategies. Counseling for chronic illnesses is vital but is often more about managing ongoing health issues rather than preventing new ones. Specialist referrals can be an essential part of care but do not constitute a preventive service, as they are typically used for more complex conditions that require specialized treatment. Thus, screenings and vaccinations encapsulate the essence of preventive healthcare that family physicians provide.