A family practice provider delivers diagnoses and treatments for a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. They treat patients of all ages –from children to seniors.
Here’s more about what falls under the purview of a family practice provider.
Family Practice Physicians Provide Their Patients With a Medical Home
When a child or adult is ill, injured, or needs an adjustment to their medication or treatment, their typical first point of contact is their family practice physician. Family practice providers diagnose, treat, and help prevent both acute and chronic conditions for patients no matter their age.
This differs from internal medicine providers, who treat adults only; or from hospitalists, who treat hospitalized patients only.
Family Practice Physicians Deliver a Wide Range of Services
Whether you or your child has symptoms of pink eye or has persistent heartburn symptoms, you can both see your family doctor. This provider prescribes medication and therapies, performs routine lab tests, sutures lacerations, and tracks vital signs. Your family practice provider performs annual, sports, workplace and school physicals, keeps and updates your medical record, and provides needed immunizations at the appropriate dosages and intervals.
Also, because your family doctor knows you and your family well, he or she can identify hereditary and lifestyle factors that increase your risk of disease or injury. Together with your family practice provider, you’ll decide on a long-term treatment plan that may incorporate improved nutrition, regular exercise, and other changes in lifestyle habits, such as smoking cessation and stress reduction. Your family practice provider will also discuss preventive screenings when appropriate, such as colonoscopies, mammograms, and more.
Family Practice Physicians Coordinate Specialty Care
If you suspect you need specialty care (such as an orthopedic doctor for an arthritic knee), your family doctor can refer you to a specialist best suited to your needs. Your family practice doctor may also communicate with the specialist as your treatment proceeds.
A Family Practice Physician is Patient and Community-Centered
Rather than focusing on a single branch of medicine, your family practice provider delivers comprehensive medical care that focuses on each patient’s needs and health-related goals.
Additionally, your family doctor serves you as a member of a community; they play an integral role in the day-to-day life of people within the communities they serve.
Learn More About Family Practice and Family Practice Physicians at Intercoastal Medical Group
At Intercoastal Medical Group, we have a team of family practice physicians across 7 locations in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch, Florida, who are ready to serve you and your loved ones. Intercoastal Medical Group is a primary care based, multi-specialty group of more than 100 physicians across various specialties. Therefore, if your family practice provider needs to refer you to have a routine colonoscopy, you have the convenience of keeping your providers all under the same roof!
To learn more about how we can help you be your healthiest, call the nearest Intercoastal Medical Group location for an appointment. Or you can also request an appointment online now.
