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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 04/21/2026
Availability last updated 04/21/2026
Family Physician (Virtual)
Casselberry, FL
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Shirley Zelikovsky is a trusted and attentive family physician. She is an integral part of Dr. Z's Health and Wellness Boutique, based in New York. Dr. Zelikovsky completed her medical degree from Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion Israel Institute of Technology. She then com...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Professional and courtesy - Dec 15, 2025 by Charles J.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Emblem Health + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
This provider's Primary Supervising Physician is Srinivas Seela.Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.88
·16 reviews
Very attentive and friendly. - Dec 21, 2025 by Karin S.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Emblem Health + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Ms. Marthe Aleandre is a nurse practitioner specializing in gastroenterology. She welcomes patients at GI Urgent Care of Florida in Orlando, FL. Ms. Aleandre can help treat common illnesses, manage chronic diseases, and care for minor injuries. She understands patients' conditions and prepares indi...Click to read more
Gastroenterologist (Virtual)
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Emblem Health + 17 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in colonoscopy + 5 more ·
Read bio
**This appointment booking is for GI Urgent Care of Florida.** Dr. Seela moved to Orlando, Florida after finishing his fellowship in Gastroenterology at Yale University School of Medicine, one of the finest programs in the country. During his training he spent a significant amount of time in basic ...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
3.11
·35 reviews
I was not seen by the doctor i booked with. staff was friendly, not necessarily professional . My exam room was left open, as well as the staff was discussing other patients reasons for visits loudly, where it could easily be heard in the waiting room - Feb 14, 2025 by Allison S.Click to read more
Altamonte Springs, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic non-alzheimer's dementia + 9 more ·
Read bio
Dr. Viola Jacob is a highly regarded primary care doctor. She practices at Kidz and Family Care, in-person and virtually, serving patients in Orange City and Altamonte Springs, FL.  She completed her medical degree at Government Medical College and Hospital Cuddalore and her residency in internal m...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Very friendly. She listened. She recommended things that might help me with some issues I was having.Click to read more
Altamonte Springs, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner (NP) with a deep commitment to providing compassionate, personalized, and evidence-based care to every patient I serve. My journey in healthcare began in 2007, and over the years, I have developed a wide range of clinical experience that has shaped my approa...Click to read more
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Absolutely by far the best therapist I have ever had and it has been a struggle. I had pretty much given up on therapy because all it ever consisted of was “how did it make it you feel?” I now think everyone should have a therapist, and the challenge is finding the right one. I am comfortable to ta...Click to read more
casselberry, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
What excites me most about this work is helping people rediscover their strength—seeing that moment when healing and hope begin to feel possible again. My path to becoming a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner wasn’t a straight line. I left school early to work in construction, later earni...Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.66
·435 reviews
I felt so comfortable and I'm very happy I found the perfect doctor. by Jennifer S.Click to read more
Lake Mary, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in acute urinary tract infection + 9 more ·
Read bio
PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT FAMILY MEDICINE/PRIMARY CARE IS THE SPECIALTY OF THIS PRACTICE BEFORE BOOKING ROUTINE WELL WOMAN EXAMS INCLUDING PAP ARE DONE BUT WE ARE NOT A GYNECOLOGY OFFICE *OFFICE POLICY WHEN BOOKING PLEASE ALWAYS PROVIDE YOU DETAILED INSURANCE INFORMATION... THANK YOU! Ayesha R...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
I enjoyed my visit! I was so thankful that Stephanie was familiar with neurology so not having to explain essential tremors was so nice, look forward to seeing her again. by JRClick to read more
Sanford, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Stephanie is a bilingual (Spanish), double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC, FNP-C) and has worked across various healthcare settings, including neurology, primary care, and urgent care. She excels in managing chronic conditions, conducting thorough patient assessments, and offering...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.97
·79 reviews
Dr. Mendez answered all of my questions and was very thorough. I will definitely stay a patient. - Nov 1, 2024 by Lauren R.Click to read more
West Melbourne, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in congestive heart failure + 4 more ·
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Dr. Ronald Z. Mendez, a board-certified Internal Medicine specialist, is a dynamic force in healthcare. He blends passion, expertise, and cultural fluency in his practice. Fluent in Spanish, he ensures comprehensive care for his diverse patient population, drawing from his education at PUCCM in th...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Melbourne, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Emblem Health + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic anemia + 4 more ·
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I am a board-certified solo internist practicing in Melbourne since 2003, with a private office and active staff roles at several local hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. I completed my medical education at West China University of Medical Sciences and completed my residency in Internal Medic...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · 20 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 37 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Allan Marks graduated from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1980 and completed residency at Stanford University Medical Center. When he’s not working, he enjoys playing tennis, hiking, and spending time with his wife and their three children.Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommendedExpertise in chronic high blood pressure + 2 more
Family Physician (Virtual)
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
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommendedExpertise in chronic diabetes + 9 more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 17 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) + 4 more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 23 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Highly recommended! Excellent service! Very informative and helpful! Took the time to properly evaluate and explain everything in a clear manner. Appointment was timely and staff was friendly & courteous! - Feb 27, 2025 by David D.Click to read more
Sarasota, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Ayoub spent most of his years up north and trained at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Internal Medicine. He is a Board-Certified Physician. In his practice, he incorporates ultrasound guidance to detect and target areas needed for healing. He moved to Florida in 2020 to get away...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 24
Family Physician
4.82
·353 reviews
She was great. Very thorough and very friendly! She was also very helpful of my situation! - Jul 14, 2021 by Tim M.Click to read more
9.5 mi · 5029 96th St E, Palmetto, FL 34221
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 33 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 3 more ·
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*This provider only treats patients 18 and older.* Dr. Jenna Fluegge is board certified in family medicine and earned her Doctor of Medicine from the American University of Antigua College of Medicine. She is trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. As part of BayCare Medical Group in St. ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 27
Primary Care Doctor
4.86
·7 reviews
Highly recommended! Excellent service! Very informative and helpful! Took the time to properly evaluate and explain everything in a clear manner. Appointment was timely and staff was friendly & courteous! - Feb 27, 2025 by David D.Click to read more
3.5 mi · 4020 Sawyer Rd, Suite A, Sarasota, FL 34233
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Ayoub spent most of his years up north and trained at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Internal Medicine. He is a Board-Certified Physician. In his practice, he incorporates ultrasound guidance to detect and target areas needed for healing. He moved to Florida in 2020 to get away...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 28
Nurse Practitioner
4.88
·144 reviews
Very friendly staff, easygoing and quick to be seen by the doctor. Overall excellent. - Nov 11, 2025Click to read more
9.5 mi · 5029 96th St E, Palmetto, FL 34221
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 7 more ·
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*This provider only treats patients 18+* Ms. Jinjoo Hong is a skilled nurse practitioner who earned her master's degree in family nursing from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She stays current with the latest advances in medicine to provide the best care possible. Ms. Hong serves the resid...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 27
Family Physician
5.00
·7 reviews
28 mi · 131 S Pebble Beach Blvd, Sun City Center, FL 33573
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Juanita Elizabeth Farfan is board certified in family medicine and is with BayCare Medical Group in Sun City Center, Florida, where she sees patients age 18 and older. She earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lincoln Memorial University, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harrogat...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician
5.00
·4 reviews
Love my new doctor - Oct 30, 2025 by Darius B.Click to read more
31.5 mi · 560 Jackson St N, Ste 302, St Petersburg, FL 33705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 30 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Thomas Travis is board certified in family medicine. He works with his patients to develop treatment plans tailored to them. Dr. Travis educates his patients on preventive care so they can make informed lifestyle choices that enhance their well-being. He’s certified in advanced cardiovascular li...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 23
Family Physician
5.00
·8 reviews
Very friendly staff from start to finish. - Mar 11, 2026 by James M.Click to read more
31.5 mi · 560 Jackson St N, Ste 302, St Petersburg, FL 33705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 30 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Garrett Singleton is a board-certified family medicine physician. He specializes in diagnosing and treating chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. Dr. Singleton has a special interest in musculoskeletal injuries, exercise optimization and active disease preventio...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 23
Family Physician
4.92
·214 reviews
An amazing doctor , very friendly, very polite . Very professional, highly recommend. - Apr 29, 2025 by Jaleesa H.Click to read more
31 mi · 116 1st St N, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Margaux Zanetti is a board-certified family medicine physician and part of BayCare Medical Group serving the St. Petersburg, Florida area, where she sees patients age 12 and older. She performs annual physicals and health screenings, diagnoses and treats short-term and long-term illnesses and pr...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Family Physician
4.95
·211 reviews
Best doctor visit I’ve had to date! Super attentive and considerate. - Mar 29, 2025 by Lynzee H.Click to read more
31.5 mi · 620 10th St N., Suite 1E, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 32 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure ·
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Dr. Carl Von Harten is a board-certified family medicine physician. He completed his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, followed by his Master of Science degree in medical science from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. He earned h...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 6
Family Physician
4.92
·339 reviews
He’s one of the best doctors I’ve ever worked with. - Apr 2, 2024 by Carl P.Click to read more
31.5 mi · 620 10th St N., Suite 1E, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 30 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) + 9 more ·
Read bio
Dr. John Schmidt is board certified in family medicine and serves the St. Petersburg, Florida area as part of BayCare Medical Group, where he sees patients age 18 and older. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Hattiesburg, Mis...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 13
Family Physician
5.00
·4 reviews
Friendly office staff, short wait times, pre-check was great and they had most of my information already in their computer, just needed to fix a couple things. Dr. Hill was very approachable and easy to talk to, gave some great advice and took his time to explain some things I didn't understand. A...Click to read more
32 mi · 630 Pasadena Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33707
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 30 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Edward Hilt is a family physician at BayCare Medical Group in St. Petersburg, FL. He treats common illnesses, manages chronic diseases, and provides minor injury care. During consultations, Dr. Hilt explains patients' conditions and prepares individualized treatment plans. In addition to writin...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
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


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