Question 1

What's the difference between family medicine and internal medicine?

Accepted Answer

Family medicine physicians are trained to care for patients of ALL ages—from newborns to elderly patients—making them ideal for families who want one doctor for everyone. Internal medicine doctors (internists) specialize exclusively in adult medicine (ages 18+) and do not treat children. Both provide comprehensive primary care for adults, but family medicine offers broader age range and includes training in pediatrics, obstetrics, and minor surgery. The choice often depends on whether you need a doctor for your whole family or just for adults.

Question 2

Can family medicine doctors deliver babies?

Accepted Answer

Some family medicine physicians include obstetrics (pregnancy and childbirth) in their practice and are trained to provide prenatal care, deliver babies, and provide postnatal care for mother and baby. However, not all family doctors choose to include obstetrics in their scope of practice due to lifestyle considerations and malpractice insurance costs. If you want a family doctor who delivers babies, ask specifically about their obstetric practice when choosing a physician.

Question 3

How is a family medicine physician different from a general practitioner?

Accepted Answer

'General practitioner' (GP) is an older term that was used before family medicine became a formal specialty. Today, most 'general practitioners' are actually family medicine physicians who have completed a 3-year family medicine residency and are board certified by the ABFM. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'family medicine physician' or 'family doctor' is the modern, accurate term for physicians who provide comprehensive primary care to all ages.

Question 4

Will I see the same doctor every time?

Accepted Answer

In most family medicine practices, you establish care with a specific physician and see that doctor for the majority of your visits, which promotes continuity and a strong patient-physician relationship. However, for urgent same-day appointments or when your physician is unavailable, you may see another provider in the practice (another physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant). Many patients appreciate the continuity of seeing the same doctor over many years.

Question 5

Do family doctors perform procedures?

Accepted Answer

Yes, family medicine physicians are trained in many minor procedures and often perform them in the office, including: laceration repair (stitches), skin lesion removal and biopsies, joint injections for arthritis, IUD insertion and removal, ingrown toenail removal, incision and drainage of abscesses, cryotherapy for warts, and Pap smears. The specific procedures offered vary by individual physician and practice.

Question 6

When should I see a specialist instead of my family doctor?

Accepted Answer

Your family medicine physician can manage most health issues and will refer you to specialists when needed for: complex or rare conditions, surgical procedures, conditions requiring specialized diagnostic testing or treatments, or when initial treatment hasn't been effective. Family doctors coordinate with specialists and often continue managing your other health issues while you're seeing a specialist. Always discuss with your family doctor whether a specialist referral is appropriate.

Question 7

Can my family medicine doctor care for my entire family?

Accepted Answer

Yes, that's one of the unique advantages of family medicine! One family medicine physician can provide care for your newborn, children, teenagers, adults, and elderly parents. This offers convenience (one office for everyone), continuity (your doctor understands your family health history), and comprehensive care (your doctor sees how health issues may run in families). Some families choose pediatricians for children and family doctors for adults, while others prefer one family doctor for everyone.

Question 8

How often should I see my family medicine physician?

Accepted Answer

Healthy adults should see their family physician annually for preventive care and wellness exams. If you have chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension, asthma), you may need visits every 3-6 months for monitoring and medication management. You should also see your family doctor for acute illnesses (infections, injuries, new symptoms) as they arise. Your physician will recommend a follow-up schedule based on your individual health needs.

Question 9

Do family medicine doctors accept Medicare and Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Most family medicine physicians accept Medicare, as it's a major payer for primary care services and has reasonable reimbursement rates. Medicaid acceptance varies more by state and practice—some family physicians accept Medicaid, while others do not due to lower reimbursement rates and administrative challenges. Always call ahead to verify that your specific insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance) is accepted before scheduling.

Question 10

Can I switch to a family medicine physician from my current doctor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can switch to a family medicine physician at any time. Common reasons include: moving to a new area, insurance changes, wanting a physician who can see your whole family, or preferring a different approach. To switch: (1) Find a family medicine physician accepting new patients and your insurance, (2) Schedule a new patient visit, (3) Request your medical records be transferred from your previous doctor. Family medicine practices are experienced with helping new patients transition their care.

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