Family medicine specialists care for patients across many stages of life and can address a wide range of everyday health concerns. They often serve as a central point of contact for preventive care, routine illnesses, chronic condition management and referrals when another type of specialist is needed.
Below, our 219 Health Network family medicine specialists in Northwest Indiana explain what family medicine covers and when it may make sense to schedule an appointment.
What Types of Health Problems Does Family Medicine Cover?
Family medicine includes care for many common illnesses, symptoms and ongoing health needs.
A family medicine specialist can evaluate concerns such as respiratory infections, headaches, digestive symptoms, minor skin problems, allergies, fatigue and other nonemergency issues. They can also help determine when symptoms need additional testing or evaluation by another specialist.
Can a Family Medicine Specialist Manage Chronic Conditions?
Yes.
Family medicine specialists often help patients manage ongoing conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, asthma and thyroid disorders. Care may include regular monitoring, medication management, laboratory testing and discussions about lifestyle changes that support overall health.
When several conditions are being treated at the same time, a family medicine provider can also help keep the broader care plan organized.
Does Family Medicine Include Preventive Care?
Yes. Preventive care is an important part of family medicine.
Depending on age, medical history and individual risk factors, appointments may include routine physical exams, blood pressure checks, cholesterol or diabetes screening, immunizations and discussions about recommended health screenings.
A family medicine specialist can help you understand which preventive services may be appropriate based on your personal health history.
Can I See a Family Medicine Provider for New Symptoms?
Yes.
Family medicine is often a good starting point when a new symptom appears and you are not sure what type of specialist you need. The provider can review your symptoms, perform an examination, order appropriate testing and determine whether further evaluation is necessary.
Having an established family medicine provider can make it easier to discuss new concerns with someone who already knows your medical history.
Can Family Medicine Specialists Treat Minor Injuries?
Family medicine specialists can evaluate and treat many minor injuries that can be handled in a routine office setting.
Examples may include sprains, strains, minor cuts or other uncomplicated injuries. The provider can also determine when imaging, additional treatment or referral to another healthcare professional may be needed.
The appropriate setting depends on the severity of the injury and the symptoms involved.
Do Family Medicine Specialists Provide Care for Adults Only?
No.
Family medicine is designed to provide care across a broad age range, although the exact services offered can vary by practice and provider. Some family medicine specialists care for children, adolescents, adults and older adults within the same practice.
This broad scope allows families to receive many types of routine medical care through one specialty.
When Would a Family Medicine Specialist Refer Me to Another Doctor?
A referral may be recommended when a health concern requires more specialized testing, treatment or expertise.
For example, a patient may be referred to a cardiologist, rheumatologist, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, dermatologist or another specialist depending on the condition.
The family medicine provider can continue helping coordinate care and monitor the patient’s overall health while specialty treatment is taking place.
How Often Should I See a Family Medicine Provider?
The right schedule depends on age, health history, chronic conditions, medications and preventive care needs.
Some patients may need regular follow-up visits to monitor an ongoing condition, while others primarily schedule routine preventive appointments and visits when new concerns arise.
At 219 Health Network, we provide family medicine care that considers both immediate health concerns and the patient’s broader medical history.
Looking for a Family Medicine Specialist in Northwest Indiana?
Family medicine specialists can address many common illnesses, chronic conditions, preventive health needs and new symptoms while helping coordinate care when another specialist is needed. A family medicine specialist in Northwest Indiana can serve as an ongoing resource for many aspects of your health.
At 219 Health Network, our family medicine team provides comprehensive care for patients with a wide range of health needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment and discuss the care that is appropriate for you.