What is a doctor that treats adults called?

According to the American College of Physicians, doctors who specialize in adult medicine are formally known as internists. If you've ever wondered, "What is a doctor that treats adults called?" this article will explain the key distinctions and what it means for your healthcare.

Quick Summary

A doctor who specializes in treating adults is called an internist, a specialist in internal medicine. These physicians provide comprehensive care for adult patients, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, from routine check-ups to complex chronic conditions.

Key Points

• Internist Specialization: An internist is a doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in adults, typically over the age of 18.

• Internal vs. Family Medicine: Unlike family medicine doctors who treat patients of all ages, internists focus exclusively on adult health, providing in-depth expertise for complex medical issues.

• Complex Disease Management: Internists are skilled at managing severe, chronic illnesses and navigating complex diagnostic problems involving multiple organ systems.

• Subspecialties: Many internists pursue additional training to specialize further in areas such as cardiology, gastroenterology, or endocrinology.

• Personal Choice: Choosing between an internist and another type of primary care provider depends on your specific health needs, the complexity of your conditions, and your preference for patient age range.

• Coordinating Care: Internists often serve as a patient's primary care provider, coordinating care with other specialists and ensuring all aspects of an adult's health are managed cohesively.

Understanding the Role of an Internist

An internist, or internal medicine physician, focuses on the comprehensive care of adults, typically those aged 18 and older. Their training provides in-depth knowledge of the adult body's internal organs and systems, making them skilled at diagnosing and managing complex medical conditions, especially when multiple illnesses are present. Many adults utilize internists as their primary care physicians for long-term health management and chronic disease care.

General Internists vs. Subspecialists

General internists provide broad care for common adult health problems. Internal medicine also encompasses numerous subspecialties requiring additional training. Some subspecialties include cardiology (heart), gastroenterology (digestive system), endocrinology (hormones), infectious diseases, rheumatology (joints and muscles), pulmonology (lungs), and geriatric medicine (older adults). These subspecialists offer focused expertise within the broader field of adult medicine.

The Difference Between an Internist and Other Doctors

Internists specialize in adult medicine, typically caring for those 18 and older. Family medicine doctors, while also providing adult care, treat patients across all age ranges from infants to seniors. The training differs, with internal medicine residency focusing specifically on adult health and complex diseases, while family medicine residency offers a broader scope for family-wide care. More details comparing common primary care providers can be found on {Link: Baystate Health https://www.baystatehealth.org/articles/choosing-a-primary-care-doctor}.

How to Choose the Right Adult Doctor for You

Selecting a doctor who treats adults depends on your individual needs. Both internists and family medicine doctors can serve as effective primary care providers for adults. An internist may be a better fit if you have complex or chronic health issues due to their specialized training in adult diseases. If you prefer one doctor for your entire family, a family medicine physician offers convenience.

Consider these steps when choosing a doctor:

1. Evaluate Your Needs: Consider your health status and any chronic conditions or family history of complex diseases.
2. Seek Referrals: Ask for recommendations from trusted sources or your insurance company.
3. Research Credentials: Verify board certification and experience through resources like Healthgrades.
4. Schedule Consultations: Meet potential doctors to assess communication style and practice.

A strong patient-provider relationship is vital for long-term health. The U.S. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion offers additional guidance on choosing a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

A doctor specializing in treating adults is called an internist, a physician trained in internal medicine. They provide comprehensive care for adult health issues, from routine check-ups to complex conditions. Understanding the specific focus and training of internists compared to other primary care doctors helps adults make informed decisions for their healthcare needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an internist treat?

An internist treats a wide range of conditions affecting adults, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, thyroid disorders, infectious diseases, and autoimmune conditions.

Is an internist the same as a general practitioner?

No, while both can serve as primary care providers, an internist has specialized training focused exclusively on adult medicine, whereas a general practitioner typically has a broader training that can include pediatrics and obstetrics.

When should an adult see an internist instead of a family doctor?

You might consider seeing an internist if you have a complex chronic illness, multiple co-existing medical conditions, or prefer a physician with more specialized training in adult-specific diseases.

Do internists treat children?

No, general internists do not treat children. They focus on patients aged 18 and older. Doctors who are dual-certified in internal medicine and pediatrics (Med-Peds) can treat both adults and children.

Are internists also primary care physicians (PCPs)?

Yes, for adults, an internist can serve as a primary care physician, offering routine check-ups, preventative care, and ongoing management of health issues.

How do you become an internist?

Becoming an internist requires completing medical school, followed by a three-year residency focused exclusively on internal medicine. Some internists pursue additional fellowship training in a subspecialty.

What is a geriatrician and how is it different from an internist?

A geriatrician is a physician who specializes in the care of older adults, typically over 65. They may have a background in internal or family medicine but have undergone extra training specifically for age-related health needs.