Who is an internist?
Internists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the internal organs. They can function as primary care doctors but do not serve children. Internists receive training to treat patients with complicated medical issues, for instance, diabetes, high blood pressure or hypertension, and cardiovascular disease (CVD). They can also guide you on how to live a healthy lifestyle and prevent infections. Internal medicine experts can advise you when to get blood pressure, cholesterol, and other checkups.
These medical professionals practice in various settings, including hospitals, intensive care units, private clinics, and research labs. Internists combine their pathology, physiology, and bacteriology knowledge to treat patients. While pathology concentrates on the study of diseases, physiology explores how the body works, and bacteriology is the study of microorganisms. This knowledge enables internists to manage illnesses that manifest in complex ways. It helps treat elderly adults whose bodies suffer from several chronic conditions.
Education & training of internists
To qualify as an internist, one must finish at least three years of college or obtain an undergraduate degree. After successfully passing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), prospective learners are admitted to medical schools, where they complete four years of medical education and training.
Internists enroll in general internal medicine residency programs after they complete their medical school studies to get more practical experience and education. A curriculum of this kind lasts at least three years, although it might go on longer for individuals specializing in surgery.
Internists must pass a medical licensure examination to become licensed practitioners during their first year of residency. The Accreditation Council provides accreditation for graduate medical education programs.
Many internists decide to subspecialize after completing their residency. They achieve this
by pursuing a specialized fellowship that lasts up to three years. Some internists also seek a Ph.D. or a research fellowship to gain a deeper understanding of research techniques and statistics.
What distinguishes family doctors from internists?
Primary care physicians include internists and family doctors; however, they differ in patient demographics and educational backgrounds. Unlike internists, who only treat adults, family doctors treat patients of all ages. Since internists focus on internal medicine during their residency, they have an extensive understanding of problems affecting our bodies' internal organs. On the other hand, family doctors receive training in general and pediatric medicine, enabling them to care for both young and old patients.
What kinds of subspecialties are there within internal medicine?
General internists serve a large variety of medical disorders. However, individuals may opt to specialize in certain areas of internal medicine. The following nine subspecialties are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine:
- Gastroenterology: It addresses issues with the digestive system.
- Rheumatology: This field focuses on conditions affecting the joints, muscles, and bones, including arthritis, back discomfort, and sports injuries.
- Cardiovascular: It studies matters concerning the heart and blood arteries.
- Pulmonary: This area of medicine focuses on conditions affecting the respiratory system, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, and tuberculosis.
- Infectious: It concentrates on disorders brought on by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, including the flu, measles, and AIDS.
- Endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism: It emphasizes endocrine-related conditions such as PCOS, thyroid illness, and diabetes.
- Hematology: It focuses on diseases affecting the blood, including sickle cell disease, leukemia, and blood clots.
- Nephrology: It deals with conditions affecting the kidneys, including kidney infections, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease.
- Oncology: It is the study of cancers.
Common chronic conditions internists treat
In the realm of adult healthcare, internists serve as dedicated caretakers, adeptly managing chronic ailments that frequently affect individuals (particularly those aged 65 and older). These persistent health issues demand constant attention to prevent complications and maintain overall well-being. Internists play a crucial role in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring these conditions to ensure the health of their patients. They commonly address the following chronic diseases:
- Arthritis: This painful ailment affects the joints, causing stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. It worsens with age and can significantly limit mobility and quality of life. Internists employ various treatments to alleviate symptoms and improve joint function.
- Coronary heart disease: This condition arises from insufficient oxygenated blood supply to the heart due to narrowed blood vessels. High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels worsen the condition. Ignoring it can result in complications like blood clots, chest pain, or heart attacks. Internists focus on managing risk factors, prescribing appropriate medications, and promoting heart-healthy habits.
- Chronic kidney disease: This condition involves a gradual decline in kidney function, often caused by diabetes or high blood pressure. Internists monitor kidney function, control blood pressure, and work with specialists to slow down the disease's progression.
- Diabetes: Insufficient insulin production or resistance to its effects leads to diabetes. Neglecting it can lead to severe complications like kidney disease, heart disease, blindness, and more. Internists work closely with patients to manage blood sugar levels through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular checkups.
- Depression: Internists address mental health issues, including mood disorders like depression. Symptoms may include persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, difficulty making decisions, changes in appetite, and sleep problems. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, and referral to mental health specialists.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure): It occurs when the heart pumps blood into narrow arteries, causing resistance to blood flow. If left untreated, it can result in heart attacks and strokes. Internists regularly check blood pressure and prescribe medications to manage it effectively.
When should you see an internist near you?
Here are a few reasons to visit an internist doctor near you:
- Allergies: Minor allergies cause rashes and irritation. However, some allergic reactions, like peanut and latex allergies, can cause fatal anaphylactic shocks. See your internist if you experience symptoms of allergies. Inform them if you recently had any adverse reactions to foods or medicines. They will check the ingredients in those items, prescribe medications, and order allergy tests to identify the exact cause.
- Chest pain: Mild chest pain can result from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, lung problems, and anxiety attacks. Your internist can determine the reason and devise a treatment plan. However, severe chest pain can indicate a heart attack. If you experience it, call 911 instead of relying on your internist.
- High cholesterol: Excessive fats and lipids in your blood raise cholesterol levels. If untreated, it can increase the chances of heart problems and strokes. As high cholesterol has no symptoms, you need to get a blood test for your doctor to detect it.
What to expect when you see an internist?
A visit to an internist doctor begins with them checking your vital signs - blood pressure, breathing rate, body temperature, heart rate, and oxygen saturation (the oxygen level in your blood). They will then discuss the medicines you are taking, your medical history, and your overall physical health.
Next, your internist will conduct a physical exam. During the exam, they will:
- Inspect your skin and nails.
- Assess your movement and posture.
- Check your eyes, ears, mouth, nose, and throat.
- Listen to your heartbeat to detect any irregularities.
- Check your breathing for symptoms like wheezes and shortness of breath.
Additionally, your doctor can order screening and imaging tests. If they do so, you will have to schedule a follow-up appointment. Afterward, you will share your test results with your doctor. If required, they might refer you to a different specialist.
Common tests and procedures in internal medicine
Internists use several tests and procedures to diagnose and manage their patients' health. Here are a few common ones you may have to undergo when you visit an internist near you:
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most frequently ordered blood tests in internal medicine. It provides valuable information to the internist about the white and red blood cells and platelets.
Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) measures the levels of various chemicals in your blood, offering insights into your body's metabolism. This test includes:
- Glucose: High levels may indicate diabetes
- Calcium: Important for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling
- Electrolytes: Includes sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, and chloride, all vital for fluid balance and muscle function
- Kidney Function: Measures blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine to assess how well your kidneys are functioning
X-Rays
X-rays provide a quick, painless way to view the inside of your body. They are particularly useful for examining bones and detecting fractures. X-rays can also help diagnose conditions like pneumonia or arthritis.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is done using sound waves to create images of your body's organs and tissues. It helps:
- Examine the abdomen for issues like gallstones or liver disease
- Monitor fetal development during pregnancy
- Guide needle biopsies and other lesser invasive procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) Scans
CT scans provide images of your internal structures using X-rays and computer technology. They help diagnose:
- Internal injuries and bleeding
- Tumors and cancers
- Detailed bone and joint problems
Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG)
- An Electrocardiogram records your heart's electrical activity over time. This non-invasive test detects:
- Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- Heart attacks
- Heart defects and other heart conditions
Echocardiogram
- An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to generate images of your heart. It provides doctors with detailed information about your heart's structure and function, helping diagnose:
- Heart valve problems
- Congenital heart defects
- Heart muscle diseases (cardiomyopathies)
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy allows doctors to inspect the interior lining of the rectum and colon via a flexible tube with a camera. It is typically used to:
- Screen for colorectal cancer
- Investigate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits
- Remove polyps or biopsy abnormal tissue
Endoscopy
In endoscopy, the doctor inserts a flexible tube with a light and camera in your throat to examine the food pipe, stomach, and upper small intestine. It helps diagnose:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Ulcers and gastritis
- Celiac disease and other digestive disorders
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests refer to a series of blood tests that evaluate how well your liver is functioning. These exams help measure levels of liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin. Unusual results may indicate liver damage or disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
How can you find the top internist doctor near you in New York, NY?
It can be challenging to decide between a family doctor and an internist. However, internists are your best option if your symptoms are specific to an internal organ. Finding reputable internists in your area is much easier with Zocdoc's help.
You can search for internists near you on Zocdoc based on your preferred appointment date, disease, residence, zip code, and other filters. Visit the Zocdoc website and enter your information in the relevant search areas. The platform will provide you with a carefully curated list of internists most suitable for your needs.
From this list, select the doctor you would like to know more about. Zocdoc provides information on internists' training and credentials, years of professional experience, affiliations, accreditation, and any honors for outstanding performance. You can also find in-depth information about the doctor's gender, the languages they are proficient in, the age range of patients they typically see, and the disorders they specialize in treating.
Zocdoc allows you to pay for your services using your insurance coverage. Search for an internist doctor who accepts your medical insurance policy and plan. If you cannot find your insurance plan on Zocdoc, you can upload a photo of your medical insurance card (excluding vision or dental). Our system will scan the image and identify your probable plan.
If you encounter any difficulties in uploading the card image, please reach out to our customer service team for assistance. For further inquiries about insurance, you can visit Zocdoc's patient help center. Moreover, you can check ratings and reviews on each provider's profile to choose the best internist doctor near you.
On Zocdoc, all appointments are quick, cost-free, and secure.
Health statistics from New York
As per a report from the New York State Department Of Health, heart disease is the primary cause of death in New York State. Some people with severe cardiac disease develop an Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI), commonly referred to as a heart attack.
According to New York State Department of Health statistics, cardiovascular conditions caused close to 32% of all deaths in 2020. Meanwhile, in the state, almost 7.3% of people reported having a heart attack, coronary heart disease, or stroke in the same year. Nearly 18.9% of New Yorkers over 65 have experienced a cardiovascular condition that required special medical care. Every year, around 6,000 individuals in New York State die from stroke.
One of the most prevalent cancers in New York is lung cancer. According to another New York State Department of Health 2018 report, around 6,700 men and 7,200 women had this condition, which was also a significant cause of death.
According to Zippia research, approximately 18, 865 internal medicine doctors are currently working in the United States. About 54% are female, and nearly 46% are male. The state of New York has the second-highest demand for these internists.
Sources
New York State Department of Health[1]
New York State Department of Health[2]
New York State Department of Health[3]
WebMD
Medical News Today
Millenium Medical Care
Zippia
Healthline
South Carolina Internal Medicine, LLC
National Council on Aging
Indus Medical Associates
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