A family medicine doctor addresses the most basic health concerns for patients of all ages. They can serve as a primary care provider and central point of care for the whole family. Some of the most common reasons patients visit a family doctor include:

• Routine checkups
• Chronic disease management
• Preventive screenings
• Immunizations
• Treatment for acute illnesses and injuries
• Coordinated care with specialists when needed

Family medicine doctors treat patients of all ages, including children. An internal medicine doctor (internist) focuses on adults only, especially those with complex health issues. However, both doctors can serve as your primary care provider (PCP).

The primary benefit of having a family doctor is continuity of care. This means they get to know your health history over time. Some patients may see the same doctor from childhood well into adulthood. This provides your doctor with the clearest and most comprehensive view of your lifelong health. Additionally, a family medicine doctor can care for entire families, making it easier to manage shared health risks and promote preventive health together.

Yes, they can. Family physicians are trained to care for children and adolescents. They can provide services that include well-child visits, immunizations, and developmental screenings.

Certainly! Having a family doctor as your PCP is a great choice for managing chronic conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Asthma
• Arthritis
• Depression and anxiety

An annual wellness exam is the starting point. From there, you only need to visit in cases of illness. Patients with chronic conditions may require more frequent visits, especially if they experience changes in their symptoms.

Yes, a family doctor can provide a range of physical exams, including:

• Annual physicals
• Sports and school physicals
• Employment or pre-op physicals
• Medicare wellness exams

As a PCP, a family medicine doctor focuses first and foremost on preventative care. The best medical conditions are those that never arise. These preventative services can include:

• Screenings for cancer, blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
• Vaccinations
• Counseling on nutrition and exercise
• Counseling on smoking cessation
• Family planning and contraceptive care

Yes, you can. Family doctors can be your starting point for taking charge of your mental health. While they do not provide therapy, they can start the process of diagnosing and managing a range of mental health conditions. They can provide a referral to therapists or psychiatrists and stay involved in your mental well-being.

Most insurance plans cover family medicine visits. However, coverage varies, and we recommend contacting your insurance provider for detailed information on your specific coverage.