Having a chronic issue that just wont resolve itself on its own is
extremely frustrating. And while you may have gone to doctor after
doctor, it may be time to see someone in internal medicine.
A physician in internal medicine has more specialized education as
opposed to a general practitioner. In addition, this doctor does not
focus on things like pediatrics or obstetrics. The main role of this
doctor is to diagnose, treat and prevent issues associated with all
areas of the adult human body. So when trying to find one to fit your
needs, be sure to keep a few things in mind.
Expertise
The whole reason for seeing a doctor in internal medicine is to get an
answer to some of your most troubling health conditions. When youve
exhausted all other options, such as family doctors or general
practitioners, an internist is the next logical step. These doctors have
made careers out of solving complex medical problems in adults. So be
sure to explain the issues youre having as well as make sure your
internist has all your past medical history. This way, he or she can
have a leg up in trying to figure out the root of your problem. In
addition, a doctor in internal medicine has gone to school for at least
seven or eight years, has passed a board exam as well as focused on a
particular area of study, so he or she is well prepared to handle your
problem, depending on what it is. For instance, if your issue deals with
the heart, then youd want to see a cardiologist. On the other hand, if
you have reproductive issues, a reproductive specialist is best.
Good Communication
In addition to expertise, its essential that you have great
communication with your doctor, especially when it comes to internal
medicine. Thats because this doctor has the knowledge and experience to
help you figure out whats causing your issue. Yet, you want him or her
to be patient and really listen to your issues. These doctors see
numerous patients each day, but that doesnt mean you should feel rushed
through your visit. So when deciding on a good internist, pay attention
to how he or she talks with you as well as listens. If you feel like
your doctor has not given you the time you need, then you need to keep
looking, because communication is key when trying to find a doctor in
internal medicine.
Timeliness
When youve been referred to an internist, this means your general
practitioner hasnt had any luck figuring out whats causing your
problem. Or if he or she knows the problem, maybe they dont know how to
treat it; yet an internist will. Unfortunately, if your internist
cannot see you until two months from now, then thats a problem.
Depending on your issue, you could possibly wait, but for most people,
this is not acceptable. Instead, you should keep searching until you can
find a specialist that can see you in a decent amount of time. Also,
whenever you do find a good doctor in internal medicine and schedule an
appointment, you want him or her to honor your appointment time. If
youre always waiting over an hour to see your physician, you may need
to start a search for a new doctor.
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