When selecting a primary care physician, many individuals seek clarity on the distinctions between an internal medicine doctor and a family medicine doctor. Both are qualified as primary care physicians, possessing training across various medical subspecialties. Both types of doctors treat adult patients, and in certain situations, may also care for children.
So, what exactly sets them apart? And more importantly, which type of physician is the most suitable choice for your healthcare needs?
Internal Medicine Doctors (Internists)
Internal medicine doctors, commonly known as internists, primarily focus on the healthcare of adults. While some internists may also treat children, this requires dual specialization in both internal medicine and pediatrics.
Internists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in adult patients. Their training equips them to provide comprehensive care for a wide spectrum of health conditions and to counsel patients on preventive measures and overall wellness.
To become an internist, a doctor must complete a three-year residency program in internal medicine. Some internists pursue further training in subspecialties such as neurology, endocrinology, oncology, psychiatry, dermatology, cardiology, geriatrics, or rheumatology, enhancing their expertise in specific areas of adult health.
Family Medicine Doctors
Family medicine doctors offer care to individuals across all age groups – from newborns to elderly patients. Their comprehensive care encompasses four major branches of medicine:
- Pediatrics (care of infants, children, and adolescents)
- Adolescent medicine
- Adult medicine
- Geriatrics (care of the elderly)
Family medicine physicians often build long-term relationships with patients, providing care throughout their lives. In many instances, they attend to multiple generations within the same family.
To practice family medicine, physicians must also complete a three-year residency program following medical school. A family medicine residency includes training in diverse fields such as pediatric medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, internal medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, psychiatry, radiology, ophthalmology, and urology. Due to the broad range of ages and conditions they manage, family medicine doctors are trained to diagnose and treat a wide variety of diseases and health concerns.
Through additional fellowship training, many family medicine physicians further specialize in areas like obstetrics, sports medicine, and palliative care, expanding the scope of services they offer.
Choosing Between an Internal Medicine Doctor and a Family Medicine Doctor
Since both internal medicine doctors and family medicine doctors are primary care physicians, deciding between them can be challenging. Both are proficient in diagnosing and treating numerous medical conditions, and both play a vital role in guiding patients toward disease prevention and early detection of health issues. Ultimately, there are significant advantages to choosing either type of physician for your primary care.
“Patients sometimes misunderstand the term ‘FAMILY’ in family medicine, assuming it means they need to have children to see this type of primary care doctor. This is not the case,” explains Stephanie Proszkow, a referral specialist at Beaumont’s Physician Referral Service. “We typically begin by clarifying that internal medicine doctors primarily see patients aged 18 and older, whereas family medicine doctors are qualified to care for patients of all ages. Family medicine doctors can also provide many of the women’s health services typically associated with an OB-GYN.”
Stephanie notes that once this distinction is understood, many patients feel better equipped to make an informed decision for themselves and their families.
“Regardless of the type of doctor a patient is seeking, finding a physician they feel comfortable with can be a daunting process,” Stephanie adds. “We strive to attentively listen to their needs and alleviate some of the anxiety associated with this process, with the goal of connecting them with a doctor who is an excellent fit.”
