Internal medicine is a medical specialty focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases.
If you’re an adult in search of a primary care physician, a Healthstar internist may be the best choice for you. Internists–the term for physicians specializing in internal medicine–work in a clinical setting focused on adults, with an emphasis in use of the best medical science available paired with developing thoughtful, meaningful doctor-patient relationships.
Healthstar Internists spend seven-plus years in medical school and postgraduate training, and they dedicate at least three of these years to learning how to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases that affect adults, exclusively. This is the biggest difference between internists and doctors practicing family medicine; internists don’t typically treat children.
Facts about Healthstar internists:
- They aren’t the same as interns! Interns are in their first year of residency training, and internists have completed multiple years of training, and have clinical experience.
- Internists are sometimes called the “doctor’s doctor,” because they are often called upon to help other physicians in tricky diagnoses.
- General internists are trained to diagnose and treat a broad and comprehensive range of illnesses that affect adults, including chronic illness.
- Internists are also focused on preventive care and healthy lifestyle practices for their patients.
- Although internists are often primary care physicians, they aren’t general practitioners, or family physicians–these doctors may also include pediatrics, obstetrics and surgery.
Unlike other types of healthcare providers, Healthstar internists aren’t limited to one type of medical condition or organ system. This can be especially helpful for patients who experience multiple health problems at once, or who have complicated health histories.
Internists are skilled in handling complex, multi-system diseases, and they often serve as primary care providers. They may also act as consultants for other specialists due to their broad knowledge of various medical conditions. While they don't perform surgery, internists are experts in diagnosing illnesses, managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), and providing comprehensive, long-term care.
Key aspects of internal medicine include:
- Prevention: Providing guidance on healthy lifestyle habits, screenings, and vaccinations.
- Diagnosis: Identifying a wide array of illnesses through medical history, physical exams, lab tests, and imaging.
- Treatment: Managing both acute and chronic medical conditions with medications, lifestyle changes, and non-surgical interventions.
Primary care is the foundation of a healthy life. It's your first point of contact for a wide range of health issues, offering preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment. Think of your primary care provider as your trusted partner in navigating the healthcare system.
Here's what you can expect:
- Preventive Care: Regular checkups are key to staying healthy. Your primary care provider will screen for potential problems, recommend immunizations, and develop a personalized plan to keep you well.
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Whether you're experiencing a common cold, a minor injury, or a more complex condition, your primary care provider can diagnose the issue and recommend treatment options. They may provide treatment themselves or refer you to a specialist if needed.
- Chronic Disease Management: If you have a chronic condition like diabetes or high blood pressure, your primary care provider will work with you to manage it effectively. This may involve medication, lifestyle changes, and monitoring your progress.
- Patient Education: Primary care providers empower you to take charge of your health. They explain your conditions, treatment options, and answer your questions in a clear and understandable way.
- Accessibility and Convenience: Primary care offers convenient access to healthcare. You can schedule appointments for routine checkups, urgent needs, and anything in between.
Benefits:
- Early detection and prevention: Regular checkups allow for early detection of potential health problems, leading to better treatment outcomes.
- Continuity of care: Building a relationship with a primary care provider ensures you receive coordinated care over time. They understand your medical history and can provide personalized recommendations.
- Reduced healthcare costs: Preventive care and early intervention can help avoid more expensive treatments down the road.
- Improved overall health: Primary care promotes a holistic approach to health, focusing on both physical and mental wellbeing.
Think of us as your healthcare home. It's where you can build a trusting relationship with a provider who is invested in your long-term health and well-being.
