Maintaining your health involves routine visits to the doctor even when you are not sick. Annual wellness exams are something you should regularly schedule. This allows your doctor to monitor your health, assess your risk factors for certain conditions, and provide you with helpful information about preventative care. When choosing a doctor, you may wonder, should I choose an internist as my PCP? Below, you will find helpful information on how to choose a primary care provider based on your unique needs.
Should I Choose an Internist as My PCP?
Choosing a primary care provider can be overwhelming. However, it is important to find a medical professional you are comfortable with and can trust. An internist can address your health needs and serve as an effective primary care provider. There are often two types of primary care providers, including internists and general practitioners. If you are concerned about who to choose, consider the following information about the similarities and differences between the two providers.
Internists:
Internists specialize in adult medicine. They have extensive training in diagnosing and treating medical conditions that impact adults, including acute illness, chronic disease, and preventative care. They are also highly skilled in managing common conditions that impact adults. Conditions include heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. While they are highly skilled in adult medicine, they also coordinate care with other medical professionals when necessary. This may include specialists or other medical providers to provide you with a comprehensive medical care plan.
General Practitioners:
General practitioners are common primary care providers. They are often referred to as family doctors as they provide care for people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. They provide comprehensive care, including treatment for acute illnesses, chronic disease, and preventative care. For those who maintain the same doctor from childhood into adulthood, continuity of care is a benefit of choosing a general practitioner.
Similarities Between Internists and General Practitioners
Internists specialize in adult patients, while general practitioners see people of all ages. However, both medical providers have some similarities. Below are the following similarities between internists and general practitioners.
Comprehensive Care:
Both medical professionals offer comprehensive care no matter what your medical condition is. They both have the skills and experience to help you treat, manage, or prevent various medical conditions. However, they both also work with other professionals to manage your health when necessary. Focusing on providing the most comprehensive care is the utmost priority of both internists and general practitioners.
Patient-Focused:
Both medical providers are focused on building a strong relationship with their patients. This includes providing care that is based on your unique needs. They are excellent at addressing your health issues and including preventative measures to maintain your overall health. Your long-term health is their top priority.
Skills and Qualifications:
Both internists and general practitioners are highly educated and have experience in medicine. While interests focus on adult care, both medical professionals have their medical license and have the requisite training and experience to care for you. They may also have specialties that they can offer. For example, some interns are also nephrologists. This means that they can provide you with primary care in addition to treating any kidney-related issues.
Schedule Your Annual Exam
If you have not had your annual physical exam in the last year, it’s time to schedule an appointment. An annual exam performed by a physical exam specialist is a necessary part of preventative health care. In fact, annual exams are necessary to prevent future issues and address any current health problems you may have. Contact Dr. Gura today to schedule an appointment!