by M. Lee

Created on: January 25, 2008   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Family Health Practices

While there are hundreds of specialties in the medical field such as oncology, ophthalmology, dentistry, and even orthopedics, to name a few, there is still a need for the general practitioner (GP), also known as the family physician. Doctors that specialize in family health are those that provide primary healthcare for the family, regardless of age or sex. Many patients stay with the same family physician from birth to death, given that they do not move from the area or retire.

Family health doctors care for patients of all ages and sexes. The family doctor will see newborns, adolescents, adults, and even the elderly for all medical problems. It is at the family doctor that most general medical conditions are diagnosed and treated. All family health practices incorporate the biological, clinical, and behavioral sciences into the practice. While not every family physician does so, many do provide maternity care as well.

Seeing the Family Doctor

Typically, most patients visit the family health practice as the first point or consultation for many ailments. Usually, the family doctor will treat the condition, or if necessary refer the patient to a specialist in some cases. Many family physicians will treat acute and chronic illnesses in their patients as well as minor surgeries. All family health doctors provide preventative measures such as yearly check-ups and health education for all patients. If patients visit their family health doctor on a regular basis, they will develop a rapport and good relationship. Seeing the doctor on a regular basis is not only beneficial for preventative measures, but it can aid in diagnosing more serious illnesses much quicker than when a doctor is seen sporadically.

The family health professional is usually who someone sees when they say that they are "going to the doctor". If someone feels sick with a sore throat, headache, or lack of sleep, they will generally visit their family doctor before a specialist or emergency room physician. The family doctor is able to prescribe antibiotics, treatments, and medications for almost any medical situation. If your particular doctor is not familiar with your ailment, or cannot diagnose it, he or she will refer you to a doctor that can, who may specialize in that particular branch of medicine.

How to Find a Family Doctor

When shopping for health insurance, such as a PPO, or preferred provider organization, plan, the list of preferred providers is generally a list of family health doctors within that insurance provider's network. Choosing a family health doctor is an important task. If, after your first visit with the family physician, you do not feel comfortable, by all means find another doctor. No one should feel uncomfortable with the primary healthcare provider.

Today there are many resources when choosing a family health care provider. Insurance companies provide roster lists with reviews and information about the doctors. There are also websites that provide information on different doctors and the related practices. Furthermore, there are numerous resources available that teach individuals about the strides in family health medicine, which are available to both the public and medical professionals. It is often worth reading these resources to remain an educated patient.

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