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315 verified Family Physicians in Sarasota, FL
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 05/11/2026
Availability last updated 05/11/2026
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.00
·1 review
- May 9, 2026 by John A.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 6 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Mitchell Doyle attended the University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine and completed her residency training in Internal Medicine at UCLA Medical Center. With over 20 years of practice experience, she has an additional focus on nutritional medicine.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 7 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
- May 11, 2026 by Chimere W.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.00
·2 reviews
- May 6, 2026Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in insomnia + 6 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.30
·30 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 15 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in underactive thyroid + 5 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · 20 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·11 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait timeExpertise in chronic high blood pressure + 2 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.00
·2 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in hiv/aids
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
- May 9, 2026 by Lillian T.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in high cholesterol + 9 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.67
·3 reviews
I was no call no showedClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 3 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 1 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.20
·5 reviews
I never got any information about the appointment, and the doctor never called me. I finally called 10 minutes after my appointment and nobody reached out until an hour after. Will never be using her services again. ? - May 9, 2026Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 9 more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·18 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 4 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.20
·5 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in anxiety disorders + 9 more
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Thu, May 14
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.90
·30 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: Fri, May 15
Family Physician (Virtual)
1.00
·3 reviews
Well i never got to do any appointment at all. You all dont take Medicaid. So you all are for rich. God Don't Sleep. - May 9, 2026 by Dorothy M.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 10 more
Accepting new patients · 24 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Fri, May 15
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
- May 9, 2026 by Krystal G.Click to read more
Orange City, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of nursing experience and 18 years in healthcare. My goal is to make every patient feel welcome, heard, and confident in their care. With a strong background in family practice, urgent care, emergency medicine, pediatrics, and...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
very good - Apr 24, 2026 by ollie C.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in bipolar disorder + 5 more ·
Read bio
Family Nurse Practitioner | Telehealth | U Be Well Healthcare I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and the founder of U Be Well Healthcare, a telehealth practice dedicated to providing accessible, compassionate, and patient-centered care. My clinical background includes primary care, ur...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician
5.00
·30 reviews
7 mi · 6600 University Pkwy, Ste 201, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Ryan Jones is a highly skilled family physician board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He practices at Lakewood Ranch Medical Group - Center Point, where he welcomes patients and families from Lakewood Ranch, FL. Dr. Jones completed his medical degree from St. George's Univer...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
4.57
·28 reviews
Didn't feel rushed. He actually listened to me. Staff very nice and helpful. - Oct 21, 2015 by Rudolf S.Click to read more
1 mi · 1219 S E Ave, Ste 208, Sarasota, FL 34239
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in high cholesterol + 9 more ·
Read bio
After booking your appointment, please give the office a call to get further instructions. Joseph Millin is a dedicated and caring primary care doctor serving his patients in Sarasota, FL. Dr. Millin is Board-certified in family medicine and nuclear medicine, and he is currently a member of the A...Click to read more
Family Physician
4.83
·30 reviews
10.5 mi · 14616 State Rd 70 E, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Emblem Health + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Rushiv Patel is a skilled and compassionate family physician. He offers consultations at Lakewood Ranch Medical Group - Lorraine Road in Lakewood Ranch, FL. Dr. Patel earned his medical degree from Marian University and is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He can diagnose,...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·30 reviews
10.5 mi · 14616 State Rd 70 E, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in acute skin infection + 4 more ·
Read bio
Dr. David J Vargas is a dedicated family physician based in Lakewood Ranch, FL. He extends his services at Lakewood Ranch Medical Group - Lorraine Road. Dr. Vargas emphasizes preventive medicine, disease management, and health promotion to empower individuals and families in achieving their wellne...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·19 reviews
12.5 mi · 1854 Rye Road, Unit E, Bradenton, FL 34212
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Emblem Health + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in high cholesterol + 9 more ·
Read bio
Michael Austen, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician. He received his medical degree from the University of St. Eustatius School of Medicine in St. Eustatius, Netherlands Antilles. He completed his family medicine residency at Cabarrus Family Medicine in Concord, N.C.Click to read more
Internist
4.97
·30 reviews
12.5 mi · 1854 Rye Rd, Bradenton, FL 34212
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Emblem Health + 22 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Expertise in high cholesterol + 7 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Lisa Zapotocky is a reliable and accomplished internist who caters to the people of Bradenton, FL. She works at Lakewood Ranch Medical Group - Rye Road, treating various complex chronic disorders in adults. Dr. Zapotocky acquired her medical degree from the University of Toledo Medical Center ...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.92
·36 reviews
I got seen 20 mins before my appointment and everyone was very kind and direct with their communication. 10 out if 10 recommend - Jan 20, 2026 by Daniel N.Click to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 6 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Pedro Morales is a highly qualified and board-certified family medicine physician known for his unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare to his patients. With a solid educational foundation and linguistic versatility, he has established himself as a trusted healthcare professio...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.96
·93 reviews
I had a good experience today. The staff were kind, helpful, and welcoming. Doctor Confident was excellent. - Feb 3, 2025 by Jackson W.Click to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic kidney disease + 9 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Leonard Confident is a dedicated and compassionate family medicine physician committed to providing comprehensive healthcare to his patients. His multilingual proficiency, clinical training, and affiliations with respected healthcare institutions reflect his unwavering dedication to patient well...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
5.00
·3 reviews
Very friendly staff Very clean. - Mar 19, 2026 by paul Z.Click to read more
31 mi · 1955 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Moises Pichardo, PA-C, is a compassionate and skilled physician assistant dedicated to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. He earned his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Practice from Florida State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology fro...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·23 reviews
Very professional, everyone was very nice and helpful and I got my questions answered and a few great suggestions! by LCClick to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a board-certified internal medicine physician with over 10 years of experience caring for adults across emergency, hospital, and outpatient primary care settings. My goal is to provide thoughtful, comprehensive medical care while building long-term relationships with my patients. I take a pers...Click to read more
Family Physician
40 mi · 3201 South Dale Mabry Hwy, Suite 101, Tampa, FL 33611
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
Family Physician
40 mi · 3201 South Dale Mabry Hwy, Suite 101, Tampa, FL 33611
Also offers video visitsAccepting new patientsExpertise in chronic diabetes + 7 more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.94
·158 reviews
Alexandra was so kind and comforting! I would definitely recommend her to anyone! - Mar 4, 2026Click to read more
St. Petersburg, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Alex is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner in family medicine and primary care.Click to read more
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Unlike traditional healthcare professionals, her practice is attentive, professional and engaged with patients. There is always limited waiting. Krista really engages with you and actively listens to your concerns. She provides care that has been lost in today’s age of healthcare. I high recommend! ...Click to read more
Riverview, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am dedicated to promoting mental and physical health and wellbeing in adult individuals. The impact that mental and physical health have on each other is undeniable. As a board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience, I strive to provide exceptional, pe...Click to read more
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·6 reviews
Unlike traditional healthcare professionals, her practice is attentive, professional and engaged with patients. There is always limited waiting. Krista really engages with you and actively listens to your concerns. She provides care that has been lost in today’s age of healthcare. I high recommend! ...Click to read more
36.5 mi · 11916 Balm Riverview Rd, Riverview, FL 33569
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 5 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am dedicated to promoting mental and physical health and wellbeing in adult individuals. The impact that mental and physical health have on each other is undeniable. As a board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience, I strive to provide exceptional, pe...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5.00
·1 review
39 mi · 4330 S Manhattan Ave, Tampa, FL 33611
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Sosa is a proud native of suburban Detroit and is double Board Certified in Family Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine. He completed his undergraduate degree in Anthropology-Zoology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and went on to attend the American University of the Caribbean School of Me...Click to read more
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

Doctor
100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Family Physician in Sarasota?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Family Physician in Sarasota, book an appointment, and see the Family Physician within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Family Physicians in Sarasota who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Sarasota Family Physician who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Sarasota Family Physician who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Family Physician in Sarasota?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Family Physicians in Sarasota and book appointments instantly. You can search for Sarasota Family Physicians by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Family Physician in Sarasota?

When you search for Sarasota Family Physicians on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Family Physicians in Sarasota who match your preferences.


How can I find a Sarasota Family Physician who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Sarasota Family Physicians with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Family Physician in Sarasota?

You can use Zocdoc to find Family Physicians in Sarasota who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Family Physician online in Sarasota?

Family Physicians in Sarasota on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Family Physicians who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Family Physician online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Family Physicians in Sarasota who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Family Physician in Sarasota who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Family Physician who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Family Physician in Sarasota who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Family Physicians in Sarasota. Many Family Physicians offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Understanding the role of a family physician

A family physician or doctor treats the whole family as a primary care medical professional. Many doctors focus on a single medicine field. Family physicians, on the other hand, have extensive training in all areas of medicine. They treat you regardless of your age or gender throughout your life. They attend to your physical, mental, and emotional needs. Family physicians get to know their patients and develop a friendly rapport with their entire family. They listen to and record their medical history to understand better how to help them make health-related decisions.


Your family physician is responsible for diagnosing and treating acute and chronic illnesses. They also provide regular health screenings and lifestyle advice. Your family physician may also refer you to a specialist if your condition needs assistance.


Reasons to see a family physician near you

Everyone should have a family physician, even if they do not have a health problem. Avoiding or preventing a health problem rather than treating or managing one is always better. Your family physician can help you keep your family healthy. They can assist you with the following:


  • Chronic disease management: Family physicians can manage and treat various chronic diseases and conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease, kidney disease, high cholesterol, skin problems, and breathing problems caused by asthma and COPD. In collaboration with specialists, they can also prescribe medication refills for chronic conditions.
  • Referral to specialists: If you have a condition that necessitates the services of a specialist, your family physician can refer you to qualified specialists. When you start treatment with a specialist, the doctors can work together to plan your prescriptions and monitor your progress.
  • Medical care for injuries or illnesses: A family physician can treat the condition without referring you to a specialist if you or a family member is ill or injured. They are experts in simple sprains and fractures, pneumonia, flu and cold symptoms, bronchitis, infections, seasonal allergies, and other illnesses.
  • Performing routine examinations: Family doctors perform the standard examinations, which include annual physicals, newborn and well-child checkups, sports physicals, men's health screenings, prostate exams, and female pelvic exams.


What can you expect from a visit to the family physician?

You can expect a variety of things depending on the reason for visiting. Your family physician may perform the following procedures:


  • Vital signs examination (blood pressure, body temperature, heartbeat, and breathing rate)
  • Routine blood tests to check for issues such as excessive cholesterol or diabetes
  • Abdominal examination
  • Immunizations
  • A head and neck examination
  • Skin examination
  • Men's health tests such as prostate exams, aortic aneurysm screenings, and colon exam referrals
  • Women's health tests such as pap smears, osteoporosis screening, mammography referrals, and sexual health screening
  • Screenings for infants and children for growth and development


Your doctor may also discuss your diet, lifestyle habits, medications, mental health, and other concerns.


How do you choose a family physician?

Family medicine is difficult to understand because it deals with various medical issues. Your family doctor must be capable of diagnosing a wide range of symptoms. Here are some pointers for selecting a family physician near you:


  • Look for in-network doctors: Most health insurance companies in your area have negotiated reduced rates with specific hospitals and physicians. If you visit in-network family doctors, you will pay less out of pocket and avoid unexpected co-pays and fees.
  • Check to see if they provide specialized care: When choosing a doctor, it is critical to consider your family's specific needs. If a family member requires specialized care, ensure the family practice you choose has someone who can provide it.
  • Consider the distance from your home: Many overlook distance as a logistical factor, but it is critical. Having your family physician close by is better, especially during emergencies.


What is the difference between a primary care physician, a family doctor, and an internist?

With different types of medical practitioners, it may take time to decide which one to see. When you are sick, with a cold or something more serious, your first point of contact would be a primary care physician (PCP). A PCP refers to any of the following types of doctors:


  • family medicine practitioner
  • nurse practitioner
  • physician assistant
  • internist
  • pediatrician
  • geriatrician


A PCP is qualified to treat people of all ages for various medical concerns, including prevention and maintenance. However, they will refer you to a specialist if your condition is beyond their scope. A PCP may also coordinate with other specialists to treat chronic health conditions.


A family physician can care for every family member at all stages of life. They are trained to provide care from infancy to old age and can treat problems ranging from bronchitis to high blood pressure. If your family doctor is treating other family members, they can keep a check on risk factors for genetic health problems like obesity and heart disease. They will also refer you to a specialist if your condition is beyond their scope. A doctor being aware of your personal and family medical history can be exceptionally comforting for many people. 


Family medicine doctors study at accredited schools of medicine or osteopathic medicine. They should complete four years of medical school, followed by a three or four-year residency. Family physicians are certified by the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) and the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (AOBFP). They also require a license to practice in the state where they want to work.


Unlike a family physician who treats people of all ages, an internist only treats older adolescents and adults. An internist treats various medical issues like a family doctor and would refer you to a specialist for complicated conditions. Internists must also complete four years of medical school and three years of residency, including specialties in adult medicine like cardiology and endocrinology. Internists treat conditions developed throughout adult life. They treat minor issues like sinus or broken wrists and can also treat and supervise more severe conditions like heart disease and diabetes. 


Eight effective strategies to cope with doctor anxiety

Do you dread annual appointments, immunizations, and health screenings so much that you reschedule them every time? Do you experience dizziness, excessive sweating, shivers, and rapid heartbeat at the thought or sight of a doctor? Have you previously delayed necessary treatments? You are likely suffering from iatrophobia, meaning fear of doctors. From negative medical experiences in the past to having multiple chronic conditions with painful treatments, there could be many reasons for your anxiety. 


The good news is that you do not have to live with it lifelong and put your health at stake. You can use various strategies to deal with it better and guarantee a hassle-free experience every time. Here are eight helpful tips to get you started: 


  • Make sure to choose a family physician with a good understanding of iatrophobia and experience dealing with patients who struggle with it.  
  • Schedule the appointments on a day and time when you are not stressed about professional deadlines and personal responsibilities. 
  • Opt for telemedicine, including video visits, phone calls, and text messages, whenever possible. 
  • Prepare for the appointment well in advance. Write down your symptoms, concerns, and queries, gather your medical records, prepare a list of your medications, and know your family history. In addition, call the doctor's office to know what to expect during your visit so that there are no surprises. 
  • Ask a loved one, such as a family member or friend, to accompany you during the appointment for emotional support. 
  • Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, guided imagery, and progressive muscle relaxation.
  • To distract yourself while you are in the waiting room, try reading a book, listening to music, or watching funny videos.
  • Discuss your medical appointment anxiety with a mental health professional. 


How do you find the best family physician near you in Sarasota, Florida?

Since a family physician looks after the health of everyone in your family, it's essential to choose a doctor who can recognize everyone's needs and cater to their care accordingly.


If you're looking for a family medicine physician in Sarasota, Florida, Zocdoc makes it simple. 

You can find a list of Sarasota's best family physicians on our convenient and user-friendly website. In-network doctors who accept your insurance plan can also help you save money on consultations and clinical procedures (if you avail of any). 


Stay calm if you can’t find your insurance plan on the website—we have a viable solution for it. You can go to your account profile and upload an image of your insurance card. We will scan it and suggest your plan. Do you have any more related queries? Our patient help center page will probably have the required answers, so please check it out!


You can also learn more about these doctors by reading their profiles. Their profile will include pertinent information such as education and training, board certifications, clinical interests, etc. 

To make a better decision, you can also read the verified reviews of their prior patients.


After choosing a family physician near you, you can immediately schedule an in-person or online consultation from the comfort of your home. All Zocdoc bookings are simple, secure, and free!


Family physician statistics in Florida

Some people choose to have a family physician as their primary care provider. According to data from the United Health Foundation, about 262.9 primary care providers exist per 100,000 people in Florida. The number includes family physicians, general practitioners, obstetricians and gynecologists, pediatricians, geriatricians, internal medicine doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. Regarding primary care providers, Florida ranks 20th among all U.S. states. 


The data highlights a considerable scope for improvement in primary care provision in the state.

Family physicians treat chronic illnesses, usually in collaboration with other subspecialists. They provide ongoing, personalized care for severe health issues like heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and asthma. According to data published by the United Health Foundation, as of 2022, about 12.2% of individuals in Florida reported having diabetes. Another report on the same website mentions that about 9.3% of people in Florida reported suffering from asthma as of 2022. Moreover, as of 2022, about 9.9% of people in the state had angina or coronary heart disease, a stroke, a heart attack, or myocardial infarction.


In some cases, such conditions are life-threatening. Having a family doctor can help you protect your health and obtain the required treatment and care as and when necessary.


Sources

WebMD

Familydoctor.org

United Health Foundation[1]

United Health Foundation[2]

United Health Foundation[3]

United Health Foundation[4]

Cleveland Clinic[1]

Cleveland Clinic[2]

Healthline

Medical News Today

GoodRx

Optum


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.

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