What is Primary Care?
An internist (or internal medicine physician) is a doctor who has received three years of pos-gradate training in dealing with health care issues of adults. Internists diagnose and treat a wide variety of common medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol problems. They also are skilled at managing many less common conditions, and are skilled at making appropriate diagnoses. An internist serves also to coordinate referrals to specialists when appropriate, and to help guide you through the complexities of the health delivery system.
An allergist is a physician specially trained to diagnose, treat and manage allergies, asthma and immunologic disorders including primary immunodeficiency disorders. After completing medical school, physicians undergo three years of training in internal medicine or pediatrics and pass the exam of either the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) or the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Internists and pediatricians interested in becoming an allergist have at least an additional two years of study, called a fellowship, in an allergy/immunology training program.
Family medicine physicians also receive three years of additional training after medical school and place a great emphasis on preventative medicine. They are similar to internists in that they treat a wide variety of conditions, provide diagnostic services and coordinate referrals to specialists. In addition, family physicians also provide comprehensive health care for children and adolescents.
All MUSC Physicians have attained board certification by the American Board of Medical Specialties. This certification is granted only to physicians who have completed a certified training program and demonstrated mastery of their specialty by passing a series of rigorous examinations pertaining to their area of interest. With this certification and a strong relationship and affiliation to MUSC you and your family can be assured of the highest of quality and professional skill when you see an MUSC physician.