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What are family physicians?

Family physicians are medical professionals who can provide comprehensive healthcare to family members of different ages, genders, and medical requirements. With their training and skills, these specialists are best qualified to treat each patient and serve as their advocates for all health-related matters. They conduct routine check-ups and health risk assessments, monitor immunizations, counsel patients about healthy lifestyles, and treat common chronic conditions. Aside from providing general health care, these physicians also refer you to specialists as needed.

Family physicians go through years of training before practicing. After completing medical school, they take board exams such as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination of the United States. After passing the examination, they start their residency, training in pediatrics, general surgery, emergency medicine, and inpatient hospital care. They can get certified through the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) or the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians( AOBFP). Finally, doctors receive their licenses after passing the national or state licensing exams. 

Subspecialties of family medicine

Family medicine is a broad medical specialty encompassing a range of subspecialties, each focusing on specific areas of healthcare. These subspecialties are as follows:

• Emergency medicine: One major subspecialty within family medicine is emergency medicine. Family medicine physicians who pursue this field work in emergency departments, managing various acute conditions and injuries. Their rotations include providing urgent care, stabilizing patients in critical condition, and performing life-saving interventions. By quickly diagnosing and initiating appropriate treatment, they ensure the well-being and survival of patients who require immediate medical attention. This subspecialty demands excellent decision-making skills, the ability to thrive under pressure, and effective communication with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.

• Sports medicine: Sports medicine is another specialist branch of family medicine that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing injuries and medical disorders associated with physical activity. Sports medicine professionals treat athletes of all skill levels and people who lead active lifestyles. They provide comprehensive care, including managing acute injuries, rehabilitation, and performance optimization. Promoting exercise and wellness, they help individuals live an active lifestyle while shrinking the risk of injuries. In addition, sports medicine physicians work collaboratively with other experts, such as orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive and patient-centered treatment.

• Geriatrics: The field of geriatrics concentrates on the healthcare needs of older adults. Geriatricians work closely with older people, addressing their unique medical, functional, and psychosocial needs. They provide comprehensive assessments to evaluate cognition, functional status, and overall well-being. Geriatricians also manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, while considering the potential complexities of multiple medications and age-related physiological changes. They also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide coordinated care, promote healthy aging, and optimize the quality of life for older adults.

• Adolescent medicine: Adolescent medicine is a subspecialty that focuses on the unique healthcare needs of teenagers and young adults. Physicians specializing in this field provide comprehensive care that addresses adolescents' psychosocial and physical health. They address various issues, including reproductive health, mental health, substance abuse, and preventive care. By establishing trusting relationships with their patients, adolescent medicine specialists create a safe space for open and honest communication, enabling them to address sensitive topics and provide guidance during this crucial stage of development. They are vital in promoting healthy behaviors, disease prevention, and early intervention when necessary.

• Hospice and palliative care is a subspecialty that provides care for patients with serious illnesses. It includes managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and supporting patients and their caregivers during end-of-life stages. Physicians in this field collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including nurses, social workers, and spiritual care providers, to address physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. They help patients navigate complex medical decisions, provide pain management, and ensure that a patient's goals and preferences guide the course of care. 

Why should you see a family physician?

Aside from being the initial or first point of contact for medical needs such as flu cases, nagging back pain, or unexpected rash, there are various other reasons why you should be consulting a family physician near you. You should see a family physician because:

• They follow your life cycle: Your family physician would typically start treating you from childhood or during your mother's pregnancy. This familiarity with your life and the lasting relationship you share with your doctor helps them provide effective and personalized treatments and healthcare.  

• They know about your family history: The physicians may have treated your parents and sometimes your grandparents. Therefore, they know your family history and all the diseases in your family. This knowledge helps them identify and monitor any illness that can affect you due to genetics or shared lifestyle with your family. 

• They treat diverse medical conditions: Family physicians undergo years of training and are experts in treating and managing various chronic conditions, including heart disease and arthritis. They can also treat acute conditions like sinus infections and injuries and perform minor surgeries like freezing a wart or draining an abscess. 

• They can find you the right specialist: The physicians can also help you find the right specialist or refer you to one who can meet your needs. 

• They will help you save money and improve your life: Family physicians can help identify diseases and prevent them from severely affecting your health. They will refer you to specialists who best treat and manage your conditions. These precautions will prevent any severe disease and ensure your healthcare spending is under control.

What to expect at a family physician appointment?

The procedures performed by a family doctor during an appointment will vary depending on the condition you are suffering. Some standard procedures that your family doctor near you may perform are:

• Checking vital signs like blood pressure, body temperature, and heartbeat
• They will request a routine blood test to screen you for conditions like high cholesterol or diabetes.
• Depending on your issues, the physician can ask for a head, abdominal, or skin exam.
• Women's health screening can include osteoporosis screening, mammogram referrals, and sexual health screening.
• Men's health screening will consist of prostate exams, colorectal exams, and aortic aneurysm screenings.
• The physicians will screen children to evaluate their growth and administer the required vaccinations.

Tips to keep your family healthy

Keeping your family healthy involves a multifaceted approach encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here are some tips:

• Stay active: Engage in physical activities as a family and enjoy outdoor time together. Regular physical exercise benefits both physical and mental health. Children should get at least one hour of moderate to vigorous activity daily. Activities like bike riding and walking are great for the family to enjoy.

• Drink enough water: Maintaining proper hydration is essential for optimal bodily functions. Water regulates energy levels, supports brain function, and promotes overall health. Teach your children to monitor their hydration levels by observing the color of their urine. A pale yellow or clear color indicates adequate hydration, while dark urine suggests they should drink more water.

• Limit your caffeine intake: Excessive caffeine consumption, whether from coffee, tea, or soda, can have adverse health effects. Caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Hence, be mindful while consuming it.

• Eat healthy: Encourage balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive fats. Some healthy snacking options include yogurt, popcorn, nuts, cottage cheese, oatmeal, fruit smoothies, frozen fruit popsicles, etc.

• Prioritize community building: Maintaining focus on family amidst constant distractions from social media and technology can be challenging in the digital age. Additionally, geographical distance often separates extended families, depriving individuals of the support of a close-knit community. Fun ways to strengthen your familial bond include organizing virtual family gatherings, sharing meals, visiting a picnic occasionally, or playing simple games at home.

• Get enough sleep: Sufficient sleep is paramount for maintaining energy levels and sustaining focus throughout the day. If you or your children are experiencing difficulties, consider adjusting bedtime to an earlier hour. A structured bedtime routine makes falling asleep easier.

• Talk about feelings: It is essential to recognize and accept the full spectrum of emotions, including worry, grief, anger, and others. Motivate your children to express their feelings freely, emphasizing that whatever they experience is natural and deserves acknowledgment. Fostering an environment of understanding and validation creates space for healthy emotional expression and support.

• Practice preventative measures: Religiously following preventive measures can reduce the transmission of germs and safeguard against illness. Washing hands frequently, covering coughs or sneezes with your sleeve, regularly disinfecting surfaces within the household, and remaining current with health screenings and vaccinations help.

Talking to your family physician is the best choice for receiving more personalized advice.

How to choose a family physician?

Selecting the right family physician is crucial in ensuring you and your family receive consistent, personalized, and comprehensive healthcare. Here's a detailed guide to help you choose the ideal family physician.

Consider their credentials

Always verify a family physician's credentials. A board-certified family physician accredited by the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) follows the highest treatment standards and stays updated on the newest developments in the field. Furthermore, they must complete at least 150 hours of continuing medical education every three years to keep their certification, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle their patients' healthcare needs.

Check insurance compatibility

Select a family physician who accepts your insurance plan. Choosing an in-network doctor helps minimize medical costs. If you're paying out-of-pocket, clarify the charges with the doctor's office beforehand to avoid unexpected expenses. Many insurance providers restrict your choice to a predefined list of physicians. Contact your insurance provider to confirm the eligible options and select a doctor accordingly.

Assess accessibility and location

The proximity of your family physician's office to your home, workplace, or school is vital. Easy access to the clinic can save you time and effort during emergencies or routine visits. If your area has limited primary care options, explore alternative facilities like community health clinics, public clinics, or hospital emergency rooms.

Evaluate practice type and additional services

Understand whether the physician practices independently or as part of a group. Group practices often include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and specialists, giving you access to a broader spectrum of care. Also, check if the clinic offers telemedicine options, such as online scheduling and guidance.

Additionally, inquire whether minor procedures or tests, like X-rays, can be performed in the clinic or if you must visit an external lab facility.

Review clinic hours and after-hours care

Consider the clinic's operating hours and availability for after-hours care. Confirm if your family physician can address medical queries over the phone or online and whether the office provides emergency support outside regular working hours. These conveniences can significantly impact your healthcare experience.

Account for special health needs

Ensure the family physician accommodates your unique health requirements. Factors such as age, gender, disability, trauma history, mental health, and specific medical conditions often necessitate tailored treatment plans. 

How do you find a top-rated family physician near you in Forest Hills, New York?

Family physicians are crucial in maintaining the overall health of an individual. These doctors are trained in extensive medical fields and can help treat conditions and identify issues before they get serious. Family physicians typically treat everyone regardless of gender or age. They are well-versed with all the members' medical and family histories. They can guide you, provide information about various treatment plans, and, if necessary, make referrals to specialists. They are our primary doctors, our first point of contact for most diseases, and are always available to meet our needs.

However, choosing a qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable physician can be difficult. Zocdoc is a platform that relieves you from this hassle by providing an open directory of top-rated medical and healthcare providers for all your needs. To locate your nearest provider, you can conduct an area-specific search, and the website will show you all the doctors practicing in Forest Hills.

Each healthcare provider associated with Zocdoc has a unique profile, and you can read about their educational qualifications, board certifications, clinical interests, expertise, experience, and language. You can also access the provider's user ratings and previously verified reviews to make an informed decision about the doctor. You can also pay through your health plan if you include your insurance provider's name in the search. The website will immediately filter all the physicians in Forest Hills who accept your insurance plan. 

If you are not able to locate your health plan, Zocdoc can help. Go to your account settings and upload a high-resolution image of your insurance card. We will scan it and suggest your likely plan. You can feed the information to the search bar and continue looking for in-network family physicians near you. Our patient help center page has more insurance FAQs for your reference. 

Thanks to Zocdoc, locating the best family physician near you is now easier! Booking appointments with Zocdoc is safe, fast, and 100% free of charge!

Statistics of family physicians employed in the U.S and New York

As per a May 2022 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report, around 100,940 family physicians were employed in the U.S., among which about 68,760 physicians practice in their own offices, approximately 17,550 practice in general, medical and surgical hospitals, around 7,300 in outpatient care centers, and around 1,080 practice in local government centers. The Bureau also states that about 3,500 family physicians were practicing in New York as of May 2022, making the New York-Newark-New Jersey metropolitan area the highest employment level of family medicine physicians in the U.S.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease was the primary leading cause of death in 2017, with approximately 44,092 deaths. In addition, there were about 34,956 fatalities from cancer, nearly 7,258 from chronic lower respiratory disorders, almost 4,176 from diabetes, and about 2,699 from hypertension. Many of these diseases are avoidable if they are detected and treated early. A family physician would be aware of ways to prevent and detect indicators of certain diseases that are prevalent in the patient's family.

Sources

American Academy of Family Physicians

WebMD

Cleveland Clinic

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[1]

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[2]

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

St. George's University

C.H.H.A

MedStar Health

Healthline[1]

Healthline[2]

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.