Tag: Family medicine

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, family physicians provide more than 192 million patient visits each year, serving as the first point of contact for a vast range of health concerns. A solid understanding of what general medicine mean is crucial for navigating the healthcare system effectively, as it forms the bedrock of primary care and preventive health for many individuals and families.

According to the National Health Interview Survey, nearly 75% of adults reported having a usual place for health care, typically a primary care provider. This highlights the central role of primary care, but leads to a common question: **Do all doctors do physicals?** The answer is no, as the scope of an exam depends on the doctor's specialty and role.

While all surgeons are licensed physicians, not every physician is a surgeon, a distinction that often leads to confusion for many patients. A **non-surgical doctor** is broadly known as a physician, a term that encompasses a vast array of specialists who diagnose and treat illnesses using methods other than invasive procedures.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, primary care includes a wide range of services for prevention, wellness, and treatment for common illnesses. Yet, the terminology can be confusing, leading many to ask **what are other names for primary care** and who the right provider is for them. Understanding these different titles is the first step toward building a strong, lasting relationship with a healthcare professional.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 95% of U.S. children have yearly contact with a healthcare provider, compared to 84.5% of adults, highlighting a drop-off in consistent care. Knowing **what doctor do you see first?** for a new symptom or for routine checkups is the critical first step in maintaining your long-term health and wellness.

According to the American College of Physicians, internal medicine and family medicine training differs significantly, influencing the type of care provided. Understanding these distinctions is crucial when deciding **should I see an internist or general practitioner?**

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, a primary care physician is a specialist in family medicine, internal medicine, or pediatrics who provides definitive and continuous care. The qualifications for a primary care physician are extensive, involving specific medical degrees, residencies, and often board certification, but the term can also encompass other providers within a care team.

According to the CDC, roughly 84.9% of adults reported visiting a primary care physician or other healthcare professional within the last year. This statistic highlights the critical role of primary care, which is consistently recognized as the first line of patient care and the entry point for individuals into the healthcare system.

According to the American College of Physicians, internal medicine focuses exclusively on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. Based on this, it's clear that the practice excludes any medical care specifically for children, surgical interventions, or conditions related to pregnancy. Therefore, to understand what is not considered internal medicine, you must look at medical specialties designed for other patient populations and procedural requirements.

Family medicine doctors treat patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors, making them a perfect fit for young adults transitioning from pediatric care. So, can a 20 year old see someone in family medicine? The simple answer is yes, and there are many benefits to doing so during this important life stage.