What is the difference between internal medicine and family practice?
Internal medicine physicians have specialized in the medical (non-surgical) treatment of diseases in adults. They receive in-depth training in the body’s organ systems, e.g. heart, lungs, kidneys, etc. and may serve as primary care physicians for individuals 18 years of age and older. Family medicine physicians have specialized in the medical treatment of diseases in both adults and children and are oriented to family dynamics and care. They have usually also been trained in performing minor office-based surgical procedures. Family medicine physicians may serve as a primary care physician for individuals of any age.
