What is the difference between a family doctor and an internist?
The distinct difference between a family medicine doctor and an internal
medicine doctor (internist) is that a family doctor treats patients of
all ages, while an internist specializes in the care and treatment of
only adults. Choose a Mission Heritage Medical Group primary care physician
that best meets your needs.
The primary care physicians at Mission Heritage Medical Group include internists,
pediatricians and family doctors. We want to ensure you and your family
have access to the type of care that will be best for your health care
and wellness needs throughout the stages of life.
A family doctor cares for patients at every stage of life from birth through
old age, whereas an internist is trained in the care and management of
chronic, severe and complex illness for adult and elderly patients.
If you're an adult with children, choosing a family doctor could be
the best fit since it may be more convenient for the entire family to
be cared for by the same doctor. If you're an adult with multiple
or complex medical issues, then seeing an internist may be your best bet.
Ultimately, the right physician for you is the one you trust.