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FAMILY PRACTICE vs. INTERNAL MEDICINE

What is the difference between a Family Practitioner and an Internist?
The answer to this question depends on when and where the question is asked. To appreciate the difference it helpful to understand the historic evolution of the two specialties. Prior to the mid 1960’s physicians finished medical school and one year internship and then either went into practice as a general practitioner or they did a residency to specialize in a field such as internal medicine or general surgery. But as medicine became more complex and technical, general practitioners found it necessary to do a couple more years of training in a family practice residency and many internal medicine specialists elected to sub-specialize in a field such as cardiology or gastroenterology.

The role of the family practitioner and general internal medicine physician also varies depending on the location. In very rural communities internists function more as a referral source for family practitioners and take on some of the role of the sub-specialist.

In an urban or suburban community such as Milwaukie, the difference is less distinct. Family practitioners are the primary care providers for all ages of patients and tend to be the doctor for entire families. Some family practitioners do obstetrics and many do minor surgery. Internists tend to be the primary care doctor for adults. Usually they will see patients over the age of 13 and tend to focus on geriatrics. Some Internists are now exclusively working at the hospital and are referred to as hospitalists. The difference between the two specialties has evolved over the years and probably will continue to evolve into the future.

The information contained in the topic is based on current medical literature and on physician review. However, because an accurate medical diagnosis depends on many factors, including each patient's unique medical history, the use of this information is not intended to replace the advice of your provider.

Written by: Dennis O. Mayer, MD

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