All adults should have an internal medicine physician, or “internist.”
Internal medicine doctors are also called primary care physicians, and
they focus exclusively on adult patients. As experts in medical issues
that affect adults, internists are skilled in treating complex conditions
like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and many other ailments.
An internist is usually the first doctor a patient will call when they
have a medical problem or concern, and patients see this physician for
their yearly checkups. Internists are trustworthy medical providers who
are cautious but not overbearing in monitoring and managing their patients’ health.
It’s important to find a primary care doctor/internist with whom
you feel comfortable. Trust your instincts. Find a doctor with who you
can speak openly about your health. When you finally meet with a new internist,
take note of whether the doctor seems like a person you would feel comfortable
discussing difficult or embarrassing medical issues with.
