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315 verified Internists in Jacksonville, FL
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Availability last updated 08/29/2026
Availability last updated 08/29/2026
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.47
·19 reviews
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Went very Well, Good Service. Thank you. by BBClick to read more
Titusville, FL
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in emphysema (copd) + 8 more ·
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He has been practicing for over 30 years. Originally from Warwick, Rhode Island, Dr. Slattery was a proud Eagle and graduate of the R1: Doctoral University Boston College, where he received his bachelor's degree. He went on to attend medical school at Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara Facultad de ...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
3.67
·6 reviews
I do not like to go to the doctor and was very anxious. She made me feel totally at ease and was very thorough. I felt very good at the end of my appointment - Jul 2, 2026 by Judith C.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 29 more
Accepting new patients · 16 years of experience · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in insomnia + 9 more ·
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Dr. Kurt Besch is a board-certified internist who offers virtual consultations through PlushCare. Dr. Besch earned his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Utah Hospital. He is also certified by the American...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 12 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in irregular heartbeat + 3 more ·
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Dr. Agrawal completed her residency at Tufts University’s Carney Hospital and completed her internship at University of Alabama. Dr. Agrawal has two young children who keep her entertained and busy when she is not working.Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 7 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Internist (Virtual)
4.92
·12 reviews
Very pleased with my appt. I feel very comfortable having Dr Tahir handle my care! - Jun 25, 2025 by james R.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 2 more ·
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** PLEASE READ ABOUT OUR PRACTICE BEFORE BOOKING** ** We focus on the comprehensive care of MEN *** ** WE DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE for office or online visits** Payment for services will be required at time of visit We provide concierge-style comprehensive healthcare for men. Our medical practic...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in colonoscopy + 4 more
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · 21 years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 2 more ·
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After years of training—earning my Bachelor’s from the University of Florida, my Doctor of Medicine from the University of Miami, and completing my Internal Medicine residency at Emory University—I finally achieved my dream of becoming a physician. I married, had two children, and continued to build...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
It was refreshing to be honest and I feel great. Thanks by SUClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Zuber Shaikh is an Internal Medicine Physician, completing his residency and training at Orange Park Medical Center in Northern Florida. Dr. Shaikh is a New York Native, completing his undergraduate studies at New Jersey Institute of Technology prior to obtaining his Medical Degree from the Amer...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.66
·413 reviews
Dr. Rutherford was very personable and my visit was not at all rushed. I was very comfortable with him. - Jul 15, 2025 by Carl E.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure ·
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Prescriptions for controlled substances are only considered during in-person, in-office visits and not televisits. We are a Primary Care Medical Practice accepting new patients with same-day and next-day availability. Dr. Rutherford, a graduate of Howard University School of Medicine with a Doctor o...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Ben Soffer is a dedicated concierge physician offering personalized healthcare services in the Palm Beach County area. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the New York Institute of Technology and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Jersey Shore University Medical...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
1.50
·2 reviews
No show!!!! - May 23, 2025 by Anne C.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Nkoronye is an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and hospitalist in internal medicine at one of the largest hospitals in Florida. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master's in Nursing from the University of South Alabama, and her Bachelor's degree from Florida Hospital ...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.44
·18 reviews
Great appointment! I worked give 10 stars if possible. - Jul 27, 2021 by Cassandra H.Click to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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***Please read prior to booking appointment*** Please be advised: - We only accept straight Medicaid; unfortunately, we are NOT contracted with Medicaid HMOs such as Staywell, Humana, Sunshine State, and Simply Healthcare. - In addition to health insurances, we are accepting self-pay patients. ...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.00
·4 reviews
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in gastrointestinal inflammation (not due to infection) + 4 more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
She was very prompt with what I needed. She was thorough and professional during our conversation. She was very knowledgeable with medications. by KMClick to read more
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Kimberly Bertot is a family nurse practitioner practicing at Orlando Tele Clinic in Orlando, FL. She is also a visiting affiliate at AdventHealth East Orlando. She welcomes patients of all ages and genders suffering from anxiety, vaginal infections, hyperactivity disorder, urinary tract infectio...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Went very Well, Good Service. Thank you. by BBClick to read more
Titusville, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Janis Oenbrink, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is a Registered Nurse Practitioner certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She has experience in Adult and Pediatric Gastroenterology, has served as a Hospice Case Manager, and has assisted with numerous medical and surgical patient cases. Jani...Click to read more
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Orlando, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a doctorate-prepared, dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University, following my Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Nursing from Nova So...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.93
·30 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in gastroenteritis ·
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Beverly Tipton is a family nurse practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience and a background in critical care. At Oshi Health, she provides compassionate, whole-person care to people with a variety of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions. She aims to help patients get control of their s...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in high cholesterol + 3 more ·
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Dr. Pablo Caignet is a primary care doctor who sees patients virtually through PlushCare. He welcomes patients with common illnesses, chronic diseases, and minor injuries. Dr. Caignet understands patients' conditions and prepares individualized treatment plans. In addition to writing prescriptions,...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.97
·30 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Andrea Onstad is a dedicated nurse practitioner specializing in gastroenterology. At Oshi Health, Andrea leverages her expertise in treating various gastrointestinal (GI) conditions and providing patients with comprehensive care. She has particular interests gut-brain disorders and celiac disease. ...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Family Physician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Duque received his M.D. from University of Wisconsin School of Medicine in 2005 and went on to complete his residency at Scripps/Mercy Hospital in San Diego. Prior to that, Dr. Duque served four years in the US Air Force as a Medical Laboratory Technician.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.67
·69 reviews
Dr. Codella was great --she was very attentive, listened to my concerns, and came up with a comprehensive plan.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
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Disclaimer: We only accept Self-Payments. NO insurance is accept. Dr. LuAnne Codella is a thorough, attentive physician who takes a functional and holistic approach to evaluation and treatment, caring for patients in Manhattan and surrounding areas. She is dedicated to providing the highest quality...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·14 reviews
Dr. Ince is a true pleasure to deal with. Asks the right questions and listens carefully. He has offered great advice and solutions. Looking forward to a very long relationship. Great doctor. Thanks, Rob Garza by RGClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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VirtuHealthMD is a fully virtual medical practice founded by Dr. William Ryan Ince, a board-certified Family Medicine physician who is also board-certified in Lifestyle Medicine and a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP). The practice focuses on preventive care, longevity strategy, meta...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.88
·32 reviews
Very quick and to the point. She was very knowledgeable and I left feeling much better.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in acute stomach inflammation/infection + 1 more ·
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Chimdi Mfebe sees patients virtually with Oshi Health. After you select your appointment time on Zocdoc, you’ll receive an email with instructions to complete your Oshi account and intake form. You must complete those steps in order to have your virtual visit. Chimdi Mfebe is a nurse practitioner ...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
5.00
·32 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Louise Babikow sees patients virtually with Oshi Health. After you select your appointment time on Zocdoc, you’ll receive an email with instructions to complete your Oshi account and intake form. You must complete those steps in order to have your virtual visit. Louise Babikow is an experienced ce...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Gastroenterology) (Virtual)
4.94
·33 reviews
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Kristin Skelly has been a nurse practitioner specializing in gastroenterology care since 2017. At Oshi, her approach is all about seeing the big picture—how what you eat, how you live, and how you manage stress all connect to your gut health. She knows that feeling your best is about more than just ...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.90
·102 reviews
Dr. Dunn was very informative. He made sure to explain to me the different treatments available and which one he thought would work best and why. My wait time was hardly long enough for me to read the cover of the current magazines they had in the waiting room, which was very clean as we're the ex...Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in lower back pain ·
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Dr. Dunn is a Family Nurse Practitioner (ARNP), Chiropractic Physician (DC), and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). He has over 17 years of clinical experience in hospitals, groups and private practice. This multi-faceted exposure to medicine gives him a unique perspective and allows him to treat...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·30 reviews
From the moment I met the nurse, I felt like I was in caring and capable hands. by TRClick to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Gretert Montano Lavina is a nurse practitioner at Elevate Primary Care & Wellness. She offers virtual consultations to patients with common illnesses, chronic diseases, and minor injuries.� Ms. Montano Lavina explains patients' conditions and prepares personalized treatment plans. In addition t...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time
Primary Care Doctor (Virtual)
4.78
·1536 reviews
Great doctor- personable, polite and Greta bedside manner. Great staff as well! - Oct 26, 2021 by Erin D.Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · 25 years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in high cholesterol + 7 more ·
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Dr. Ali brings a whole new level of exceptional medical care, different from any traditional practice. Appointments are available 7 days a week. House calls are also available. Dr. Ali provides comprehensive primary medical care and urgent care services. He believes in seeing fewer patie...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
3.29
·7 reviews
Two days before the appointment, I told them I had a new insurance, i even sent them a picture of my new insurance, filled out new patient paperwork WITH MY NEW INSURANCE before the appointment, and even called the day before to see what the copay was for my new insurance. THE DAY OF MY 9:00 AM APPO...Click to read more
Merritt Island, FL
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ms. Madanys Valenzuela Urquiza is a nurse practitioner at Allied Family Health, LLC in Tampa, FL. She accepts patients of all ages with common illnesses, chronic diseases, and minor injuries. She also offers virtual services. Ms. Valenzuela Urquiza understands patients' conditions, prepares indivi...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Merritt Island, FL
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Patrina Gordon is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 15 years of experience in primary care. A proud graduate of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, an institution founded on service, leadership, and excellence in healthcare, she has dedicated her career...Click to read more
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with an Internist in Jacksonville?

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


How can I find a Jacksonville Internist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Jacksonville Internist 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 an Internist in Jacksonville?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Internists in Jacksonville and book appointments instantly. You can search for Jacksonville Internists 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 Internist in Jacksonville?

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


How can I find a Jacksonville Internist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Jacksonville Internists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Internist in Jacksonville?

You can use Zocdoc to find Internists in Jacksonville 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 an Internist online in Jacksonville?

Internists in Jacksonville 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 Internists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with an Internist 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 Internists in Jacksonville 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 an Internist in Jacksonville who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Internist 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 an Internist in Jacksonville who sees patients during the weekend?

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


What is an internist?

Internists are doctors of internal medicine. They specialize in the body's internal organs and systems but are not limited to those areas. They can also provide preventive care and treat various conditions, from skin rashes to ear infections. They solely see adults and are not surgeons. They solve chronic and multiple illness problems, whether simple or complex. 


The "doctors of internal medicine" (also known as "internists") are the only primary care physicians who specialize in adult medicine. They teach patients about wellness (disease prevention and health promotion), women's health, substance abuse, mental health, and effective treatment of common problems with the eyes, skin, ears, nervous system, and reproductive organs. They are skilled in solving complex diagnostic issues. They deal with severe chronic illnesses as well as situations in which multiple diseases strike at the same time.


Internists strive to care for patients for the rest of their lives. They may work in an office, clinic, hospital, or nursing home. While working with other medical specialists, such as surgeons or obstetricians, they coordinate the patient's care and manage the complicated medical problems resulting from that care.


Education and training

The training program for becoming an internist closely mirrors the process in other medical fields. It commences with the acquisition of admission to medical school. Most medical schools mandate that students possess an undergraduate degree before enrollment, although a few will accept three years of college. While not obligatory, most medical schools prefer students to study medicine-related subjects, like biology or chemistry.


Students also complete the Medical College Admission Test to enter medical school, a multiple-choice exam assessing their aptitude for medical training and future medical practice. Leading medical institutions expect high scores on this test. In medical school, students participate actively in four years of training and education, including structured study patterns and clinical rotations in medical practices and hospitals.


Upon earning a medical degree, internists enroll in a general internal medicine residency program, where they gain hands-on training to prepare for a career as a physician. These residency programs are a prerequisite for practicing medicine in the United States and typically last at least three years, with longer durations for specialized fields, such as surgery.


All doctors are mandated to pass a medical licensing examination during their first year of residency, and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education accredits these programs. After completing a residency, some internists may opt to specialize by undertaking a fellowship in their chosen area, a commitment that can extend up to three years.


Certain internists may also seek to enhance their research skills through a Ph.D. or a research fellowship, as a comprehensive understanding of research methods and statistics is essential to stay current with new treatments. It is not uncommon for some physicians to allocate a portion of their time to medical research.


Subspecialties in internal medicine

Internal medicine doctors may specialize in areas such as:

  1. Endocrinology
  2. Pulmonary diseases
  3. Rheumatology
  4. Infectious diseases
  5. Cardiovascular diseases
  6. Oncology
  7. Gastroenterology
  8. Nephrology
  9. Critical care medicine
  10. Hematology
  11. Dermatology
  12. Ophthalmology
  13. Gynecology
  14. Neurology
  15. Psychiatry
  16. Palliative medicine
  17. Sleep medicine
  18. Geriatrics
  19. Otorhinolaryngology
  20. Non-surgical orthopedics
  21. Rehabilitation medicine


Internal medicine residents must dedicate at least one year to caring for hospitalized patients, including a mandatory three-month rotation in intensive care units. They receive at least one year of hospital-based training and additional exposure to in-patient subspecialties, including cardiology, hematology-oncology, or gastrointestinal. After completing a three-year internal medicine residency, students must complete an additional one to three years of fellowship training to gain expertise in one of the subspecialties.


Internists vs. family medicine doctors

Often, people need clarification on the roles of internists and family medicine doctors. While both serve as primary care physicians for most people—providing annual exams and overall health management—there is a clear difference between the two types of doctors.


Family medicine doctors treat a broader range of patients than internists. They oversee the health and well-being of people of all ages, including children. They may also provide gynecological care to female patients.


On the other hand, internists' patient base includes people aged 18 and older. They have in-depth knowledge of internal organs and processes or interactions. They are experts in primary care screening and treating common adult disorders such as diabetes and hypertension and managing patients with complicated conditions.


What are the benefits of seeing an internist?

The field of internal medicine offers numerous benefits, making it an excellent choice for diagnosing, treating, and even preventing illnesses. Here are four key advantages of seeing an internal medicine doctor that patients may not experience with general or family doctors:

  • Accurate diagnosis: Internal medicine doctors often specialize in subfields like immunology, cardiology, or gastroenterology, which enables them to handle a wide range of diseases. They also collaborate effectively with other specialists, ensuring patients are referred to the right experts when needed. As a result, patients receive a more exact diagnosis and can trust the recommended treatments.
  • Preventive care: Internists not only diagnose and treat diseases but also focus on disease prevention. Individuals at risk of certain diseases due to their medical history or lifestyle choices can consult an internist to develop a personalized prevention plan, helping them avoid potential health issues before they arise.
  • Effective treatment: With extensive education, rigorous residency training, and specialization in a particular area, internal medicine doctors are well-equipped to offer the most effective treatments. Their expertise enables them to quickly identify health issues and provide targeted, efficient care, making it easier to get an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment sooner than with a general or family doctor.
  • Clear communication: Building trust between a doctor and patient is crucial, and internal medicine doctors prioritize open, honest communication. They ensure that they answer patients' questions and address their concerns. If a patient needs specialized care in another area, an internist can guide them to the appropriate specialist, ensuring comprehensive treatment and support.


When should you see an internist?

As we age, our metabolism starts slowing down, which may lead to the chances of having a chronic disease. Hence, most of the internist patient population is senior (65 and above). However, chronic diseases are not only limited to older adults. Many young adults and middle-aged people also develop chronic conditions like kidney disease, hypertension, gastrointestinal issues, hormonal issues, etc.


If you are an adult dealing with the following chronic conditions, you may visit an internist for diagnosis and treatment:

  1. High blood pressure: High blood pressure, or hypertension, usually has no apparent symptoms. However, because it can cause cardiovascular and organ damage, your primary care physician must diagnose and treat it continuously. The only way to determine your high blood pressure is to check it with a doctor. An internal medicine doctor can prescribe appropriate medications depending on how your organs interact internally for better effectiveness of the treatment.
  2. High cholesterol: High cholesterol occurs when there is an excess of cholesterol in the blood, made up of fats or lipids. High cholesterol, like high blood pressure, has no symptoms. Your internist can perform a blood test to ascertain your cholesterol levels. Untreated high cholesterol raises the risk of a heart attack or stroke, and thus, you must follow your internist's recommendations to treat it successfully.
  3. Allergies: Each form of allergic reaction has its own set of origins and symptoms. Some allergic reactions can be life-threatening, such as peanut or latex allergies, which can cause anaphylactic shock in susceptible individuals, while minor ones can cause itching and rashes. It is critical to inform your internal medicine doctor of any unusual reactions to foods or medications, even if they are minor. 
  4. Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain can have various origins, ranging from minor factors like muscle strains or stomach infections to more severe conditions such as acute appendicitis and multiple types of cancer. If you are experiencing extreme discomfort or your abdomen is tender to the touch, you should go to the emergency department. Consulting an internist is better if you have minor pain. An internist can assist you in determining whether your discomfort is gastrointestinal or caused by something else.


What can you anticipate during your visit to an internist near you?

Your experience when visiting an internist will differ based on the reason for your appointment. Nevertheless, you can generally anticipate the following care steps:

  1. The doctor will assess your vital signs, review your medical history, and inquire about your medication list. Your internist will also discuss your symptoms and overall health condition, often conducting a physical examination to understand your well-being comprehensively.
  2. As part of the physical exam, your internist typically observes your general appearance, including your posture and movement. They listen to your heart for any signs of a heart murmur, irregular heartbeat, or unusual sounds. They also evaluate your breathing for crackles, wheezing, or symptoms of shortness of breath. Additionally, they examine your eyes, ears, nose, mouth, throat, skin, and nails.
  3. The doctor may order screening tests like a lipid panel or bone density test for routine wellness check-ups. They will also order appropriate tests for specific health concerns, ranging from a simple urinalysis to more complex imaging tests. Depending on the specifics of your condition, your healthcare provider ought to arrange a follow-up appointment or make a referral to a specialist.
  4. If you are under the care of other specialists, your internist may collaborate with them to ensure coordinated care and to check for potential interactions between medications. High-quality internists may take a proactive approach, offering advice on lifestyle changes as well as preventive measures to ward off future health issues. They will also assess your mental health, including screening for conditions such as depression.


How do you find top internists near you?

Usually, searching for a good internist involves asking our friends, family, or other healthcare providers for recommendations and making a list of them. Then, we narrowed the options by calling each doctor's office or visiting them for consultation. After hours wasted in the individual search, finding the one that requires less travel and best suits your medical and financial needs can still be challenging. Thankfully, with Zocdoc, you can search, compare, and book healthcare providers anywhere in the US! 


To begin with, sign up with Zocdoc for free. Then, using the search bar, enter the condition you are suffering from, the clinical procedure you need to avail of, or the doctor you want to visit. Use our location filter to find the internist practicing in and around Jacksonville, Florida, by selecting your preferred location. Select the preferred appointment date. Enter your insurance plan or carrier name to find an "in-network" doctor as per your insurance plan to help you save money on bills and procedures. Once you confirm your choices, our algorithm will provide a list of profiles of top-rated internists in Jacksonville, Florida, that accept your insurance. 


If you need assistance finding internists who accept your insurance, our online patient help center is here to support you. Using Zocdoc, you can connect your medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to your account. However, you can use only one insurance plan per appointment. Those with multiple insurance plans can add their secondary insurance information to the appointment notes. Additionally, if your healthcare provider uses Zocdoc's Intake forms, you can also enter your secondary insurance details there.


The Zocodc provider profile is unique to the individual. Click on the profile to read about the doctor's academic qualifications, medical expertise, research interests, languages they speak, hospital affiliations, availability, etc. These profiles include regularly updated and verified reviews and ratings by previous patients to help you understand the doctor's approach and work manners. Once you have chosen an internist near you, you can easily book an in-person or online appointment


Booking appointments on Zocdoc is simple, secure, and free! 


Chronic condition statistics in Florida

Internists routinely see patients with chronic issues such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and pulmonary disease. High cholesterol is a significant and modifiable risk for heart disease and stroke, the country's leading cause of death, with heart disease being the fifth-leading cause.


As per data published by America's Health Rankings, about 33.4% of adults in Florida reported being diagnosed with high cholesterol in 2019. Nearly 48% of Florida's older adults (65 and older) reported high cholesterol. Almost 40% of the state's middle-aged adults (45-64) had high cholesterol levels. At the same time, the percentage was far less, about 16%, for young adults (aged 18 to 44). 


According to America's Health Rankings, diabetes was the eighth-leading cause of death in the US in 2020, accounting for nearly 102,188 deaths annually. As of 2019, about 11.8% of Florida adults reported having diabetes. Among these, almost 30% were older adults, and 13% were middle-aged.


Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a lung inflammation that gradually damages the air sacs, reducing airflow and making breathing difficult. Adults who smoke or are in regular contact with smoke and dust have a higher risk of lung infections. As of 2020, nearly 7.5% of Florida adults reported chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.


Sources

Cleveland Clinic

WebMD

America’s Health Rankings[1]

America’s Health Rankings[2]

America’s Health Rankings[3]

Thompson Health

South Carolina Internal Medicine

Medical News Today

Center for Adult Medicine and Preventive Care


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.

Zocdoc›Internists›Jacksonville, FL