Family Physician – I find many people do not know what a family physician does, their training, or role. As the medical field has grown larger and more complex with specialists, we have gotten away from the role of a family Physician. There is a misconception that a family physician is a “generalist” or non-specialty physician, however Family Medicine is its own specialty in and of itself. Family physicians, after 4 years of medical school, complete an intensive accredited 3-year residency program encompassing all the major pillars of family medicine. Family Medicine physicians by far have the largest scope of practice out of any of the specialties. We receive training in obstetrics and gynecology (we deliver babies), pediatrics, adult medicine, and geriatrics in a variety of setting including hospitals, outpatient offices and emergency rooms. As the primary contact for most patients, we often are the first to diagnose, treat, and or refer if needed. We coordinate patients care and help guide them through the medical system. We often form long term relationships with patients and their families which allows us to have a better window in to their healthcare and other determinants of health such as living conditions and family structure. We are “ comprehensivists” we don’t focus on one system or body part as other specialists. We are responsible for looking at you as a whole person and treating you systemically. Depending on what geographic location you practice and comfort level, some family docs provide more services such as emergency medicine or general surgery. Though I do not deliver babies any longer I do love to see whole families from newborn to adults!
The best description I can give you of a Family physician is a “Jack of all trades”
I used to be offended by this term as it often has a negative connotation of somebody who knows a little about a lot or lacks specialty knowledge, however that was before I knew the full quote. The original quote spoken by William Shakespear was a compliment.
“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but often times better than a master of one”
So get you and your family a board-certified Family Physician, I promise you will be in good hands!
Dr. M
