What is the meaning of internist?
Internists are physicians who specialize in treating adult patients. They are sometimes referred to as doctors of internal medicine or general internists.ScopeInternists help adult patients by focusing on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of both acute and chronic conditions. On a given day in the clinic, they may address everything from ear infections to ulcers, cold sores to stiff joints.ProcessInternists review patients’ histories, examine patients and discuss symptoms. They order diagnostic tests. Based on their diagnoses, they recommend prescription medications, dietary or lifestyle changes and other treatment approaches.ReferralsPhysicians in other specialties often consult with internists for help on difficult cases. Likewise, an internist may refer a patient to a specialist for a certain type of care.TrainingTo prepare for their careers, internists attend four years of medical school, then complete a three-year residency. According to the American College of Physicians, s
