Internal Medicine vs Family Doctor
Choosing a new physician can be a daunting search and many patients are confused about differences between Internal Medicine and Family Medicine. Both treat and prevent a variety of illnesses and both are required to undergo a three year, post-graduate residency program. It is of the utmost importance to find the physician that meets your personal needs and individual circumstances.
Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine is defined as the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of any and all adult diseases. The term Internal Medicine originated from the Greek term innere Medizin, which described physicians who combined research and patient care. Doctors of Internal Medicine are referred to as Internists in the United States. Internists are able to deal with a multitude of illnesses no matter the rarity. During an Internist’s educational training, they complete at least three years of study on treating, preventing and diagnosing. Internists are given the option to focus on general Internal Medicine or choose one from the 13 subspecialties of Internal Medicine.
Family Doctor
Family Medicine is devoted to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment for people of all ages. Family doctors deal with the comprehensive healthcare of their patients. They are able to treat children, teens and adults for a variety of afflictions and prevent any future sickness. Family doctors must complete at least three years of study on treating, preventing and diagnosing diseases that affect people of any age or sex and for any part of the body. Family Medicine practitioners have the option to specialize, but rarely do. It is common for a family doctor to develop a relationship with their patients and treat the entire family.
Comparing the Two
Both physicians promote proper healthcare and preempt any future of diseases. Internists and family doctors manage a variety of disorders, such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. They are able to refer patients to specialists, such as a cardiologist, when necessary. The major difference between the two physicians is ages of patients, Internists focus on adults and family doctors can treat any age.