Best Internists In Ft-Lauderdale (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between an internist and a primary care doctor? ›

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.

The specialty of internal medicine covers a wide range of conditions affecting the internal organs of the body - the heart, the lungs, the liver and gastro-intestinal tract, the kidneys and urinary tract, the brain, spinal column, nerves, muscles and joints.

Because of their in-depth knowledge of connections inside and outside of the adult human body, internal medicine physicians can effectively piece together multiple data sets (lifestyle, symptoms, existing conditions, medications, etc.)

You should consider a family physician or internal medicine specialist (internist) to serve as your PCP to provide overall management of your health care. You also may want to choose an obstetrician/gynecologist if you are a woman, or a pediatrician for your children.

Family physicians are trained to diagnose and treat an entire spectrum of medical issues for patients of all ages. “Family physicians have a broader scope,” Dr. Doggett explains.

What is an Internist? An internal medicine physician, or internist, is a doctor that specializes in the internal organs, including the heart, kidney, liver and lungs.

Internal medicine doctors apply research-based knowledge and clinical expertise to promote wellness and to diagnose and treat adults experiencing a very broad range of health concerns and diseases — from cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, gastrointestinal problems, and sports injuries to diabetes, age-related ...

As part of your physical exam, your an internist typically will: Look at your general appearance, including your posture and how you move. Listen to your heart, checking for a heart murmur, irregular heartbeat, or other unusual sounds. Listen to your breathing, checking for crackles, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

Can an internal medicine doctor treat a cough? ›

An internal medicine specialist is a doctor who has the expertise in preventing, diagnosing, and treating adult diseases. In complex cases involving persistent cough and cold symptoms, internal medicine specialists can address underlying issues & offer effective treatment.

In internal medicine, one of the most daunting challenges is diagnosing complex cases involving multi-system diseases. These conditions often present with a myriad of symptoms that can mimic other illnesses, making it difficult for physicians to pinpoint the root cause.

Unlike some specialists who only see patients for particular ailments, internists build lasting relationships by acting as a go-to person for general health concerns. This continuous involvement ensures that doctors explore their patients' lives holistically and help them through emotionally difficult periods.

Geriatricians are experts in the care of elderly patients, while internists may or may not have specific training in geriatrics. Most internists will be able to treat elderly patients, but they may not be as knowledgeable about the specific needs of this population.

While PCPs have broad knowledge, specialists focus on the management of specific conditions and/or body systems. They work with your PCP to provide care based on their respective specialties.

A doctor of osteopathic medicine graduates from a U.S. osteopathic medical school. A doctor of medicine, also known as an M.D., graduates from a traditional medical school. A major difference between D.O.s and M.D.s is that some doctors of osteopathic medicine use manual medicine as part of treatment.

A physician (M.D. – Medical Doctor or D.O. – Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine), nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist or physician assistant, as allowed under state law, who provides, coordinates or helps a patient access a range of health care services.