Locations:
SearchAdvertisement
The short answer from a primary care specialist
Q: I’m looking for a primary care doctor. What’s the difference between an internist and a family physician?
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
A: Internists are specialty-trained to treat adults from 18 years old through the geriatric years. They have intensive and comprehensive training in all aspects of adult medical care. Internists specialize in primary care screening and in treating common adult problems, such as diabetes and hypertension, as well as in treating patients with a complex combination of conditions.
Family medicine doctors are specialty-trained to care for people across the lifespan, from birth through the geriatric years. Family medicine doctors have formal training in pediatrics, adult medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, mental health and more. This broad training equips them to deal with a wide range of health problems for the entire family, with a focus on wellness, disease prevention and chronic disease management.
— Family medicine physician Garrett Kirkpatrick, DO
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
The nocebo effect is a phenomenon where expectations of negative outcomes may influence the results
Irritation from skin rubbing against skin or clothes can affect your whole body, but powders, creams and even the right underwear can help protect you
Make your home a no-fly zone by cleaning your drains, refrigerating your produce and DIYing a fruit fly trap
Taking supplements with biotin can cause inaccurate lab test results
The answer depends on both dosage and drinking habits
Experiencing constant fatigue, shortness of breath and chills could all be signs of low iron
It can be a warning sign of low blood sugar or something more serious like a heart attack
Mold and bacteria in your reusable water bottle can cause health issues like infections, respiratory issues and allergic reactions
Not all ear infections need antibiotics — cold and warm compresses and changing up your sleep position can help
A glass of lemon water in the morning can help with digestion and boost vitamin C levels, and may even help get you into a better routine
