An internal medicine specialist (or “internist”) is a medical professional who has undergone specialty training in diagnosing and treating chronic illnesses, as well as providing preventive care. These doctors are on the front lines of managing disease and typically work with patients over long periods to ensure their conditions are properly managed.

Are you interested in learning more about what an internal medicine specialist does, and how they can help you? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This internal medicine specialist in East Chicago is going to explain everything you’ll need to know.

Know What an Internal Medicine Specialist Does

It is common for patients to visit their primary care doctor whenever they are sick. Many do not realize that, in some cases, their primary care physician is not equipped to handle certain medical conditions. This is where an internal medicine doctor may help. Internal medicine specialists in East Chicago treat a wide range of health problems using holistic approaches, meaning they evaluate your overall health before deciding on a specific course of treatment.

An internal medicine doctor is trained to diagnose both acute and chronic illnesses while treating symptoms accordingly. They may prescribe medication or perform surgery if necessary. Because they have extensive knowledge about how different diseases affect your body, they may better address any underlying issues you might be experiencing and prevent future complications.

When Should You Visit an Internal Medicine Specialist in East Chicago?

Internal medicine doctors treat medical conditions originating in a patient’s internal organs or system. They also specialize in disease prevention, health promotion and adult inpatient care. Internists are not necessarily specialty-trained like endocrinologists or neurologists; however, they work as primary care providers.

To know when to consult an internal medicine specialist in East Chicago instead of your primary care physician, it is crucial to understand their scope of practice (and how it differs from other types of doctors).

Internists evaluate patients of all ages; perform physical exams; order tests and X-rays; diagnose illnesses and diseases; formulate treatment plans by prescribing medications; provide preoperative advice if needed; educate patients on preventive measures and healthy living practices that help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and more. Because they deal with all aspects of adult healthcare issues — from infections to cancer, congestive heart failure or autoimmune disorders — many patients visit internists.

Here are some scenarios in which it might make sense to seek out an internal medicine specialist in East Chicago:

  • You have a new diagnosis or condition (or multiple conditions).
  • You have ongoing medical issues requiring frequent follow-up appointments (such as monitoring the side effects of prescribed medication).
  • You do not have access to a primary care physician who has availability for follow-up appointments.
  • Your primary care physician does not specialize in your condition (if you need someone specializing in treating lung cancer, for example).
  • You are seeking a second opinion regarding your diagnosis or treatment plan from another trusted medical professional.

Looking for an Affordable Internal Medicine Specialist in East Chicago?

Now that you have a deeper understanding of what an internist does and how they may help you, are you ready to schedule an appointment? If so, and if you are looking for an affordable internal medicine specialist in East Chicago, 219 Health Network is here to help. We have licensed internal medicine specialists on staff who can help you effectively manage any chronic conditions you may be dealing with. Contact us today at (219) 398-9265 to learn more.