Internal medicine is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in adults. Physicians who specialize in internal medicine are called internists. They apply scientific knowledge and clinical expertise to care for adults, from general health to complex illnesses. Internists manage common and rare health conditions, and they often coordinate care for patients with multiple health issues. Here’s more information on internal medicine doctors and when to visit one:
What Are Internists For?
An internist manages a broad range of health conditions affecting their adult patients. Their comprehensive training equips them to handle complex diagnostic challenges and oversee long-term care for chronic illnesses. They work in various settings, including private practices, clinics, and hospitals.
Primary Healthcare and Internal Medicine
Many adults choose an internist as their primary care physician (PCP). In this role, internists provide routine health screenings, preventive care, and treatment for common ailments like the flu or minor injuries. They serve as the central point of contact for a patient’s healthcare needs, and they can offer guidance on overall wellness, including diet and exercise. Choosing an internist for primary care gives you an expert who is equipped to handle both simple and complex medical issues as you age.
Internal Medicine Services
Beyond primary care, the services provided by internal medicine doctors are extensive. Internists are trained to understand how various diseases can interact, making them adept at managing patients with multiple health problems. If you require specialized care, an internist can refer you to another specialist. They will often remain involved to coordinate your overall treatment and monitor your health.
What Can Internists Treat?
Internists can treat a wide array of conditions that affect the body’s internal organs and systems. These professionals can address everything from high blood pressure and cholesterol to respiratory infections and gastrointestinal problems. Their scope of practice includes managing diseases related to:
- The Heart
- The Lungs
- The Kidneys
- The Digestive Tract
Internists manage chronic illnesses that require ongoing medical attention, like diabetes, asthma, and heart disease, and they also diagnose and treat acute illnesses as they occur. Extensive medical training allows these specialists to create and adjust long-term treatment plans, monitor patient progress, and help individuals manage their health effectively over time. They focus on the whole patient, not just a single symptom or organ system.
When Should You Visit One?
An adult seeking a primary care physician can visit an internist, as they are an appropriate choice for routine check-ups, vaccinations, and general health concerns. You may also benefit from an internal medicine specialist if you are experiencing new or unexplained symptoms. When dealing with one or more chronic conditions, these physicians are particularly well-suited to managing complex medical histories and coordinating care when multiple specialists are involved.
Learn More About Internal Medical Services
Understanding the role of an internist can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare. These physicians provide foundational care, offering services that range from preventive health to the management of intricate diseases. If you are looking for comprehensive, long-term care throughout your adult life, contact an internist for an appointment today.
