What Is An Internal Medicine Doctor?

An Internal Medicine doctor (also known as an internist) is a physician who is trained to apply scientific knowledge and clinical experience to treat adults with various medical conditions.  An Internist promotes health and provides preventive care, screens for diseases like cancer, diagnoses complex medical problems, and treats acute and chronic diseases.  An Internist provides general Primary Care, and typically managing diseases like heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and lung disease, sometimes with the help of a specialty consultant.

What Is a Family Medicine Doctor?

A Family Medicine doctor is a physician who is specially trained to provide continuing and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive care to each member of the family, regardless of gender, age, or type of problem.  Family physicians treat both acute and chronic medical conditions along with psychosocial issues, emphasizing the care of the whole person as an individual.  These specialists, because of their background and interactions with the family, are best-qualified to serve as each patient's advocate in all health-related matters, including the appropriate use of consultants, health services, and community resources. 

What’s The Difference Between Family Medicine and Internal Medicine?

One difference is that while internists treat patients aged 18 and over, family medicine practitioners may see patients of all ages.  Both types of physician provide Primary Care and preventive medicine, and both are qualified to manage a wide variety of medical conditions.  Some Internal Medicine physicians are also trained in a medical subspecialty or in the complexities of hospital-based care, while Family Medicine physicians emphasize wellness and disease prevention in the outpatient setting.  Internists and Family Medicine physicians have unique skills and interests, but complement each other as part of a complete health care team.

Why Is It Important to Have a Yearly Physical?

The best type of medicine is preventative. Annual physicals enable patients to:

• Prevent health problems
• Update vaccinations
• Review/renew prescription medication
• Receive ‘lifestyle coaching’ (or advice on how to maintain a strong, healthy body)

How Can I Get Started As A Patient With Your Practice?

We offer a number of resources for new patients who are seeking a family medicine physician or internist for themselves or their families. Most Prima CARE physicians are accepting new patients and we accept all major insurances. Head to our providers page to find a doctor near you.