Family Medicine

Common Conditions Treated by Family Medicine Doctors: from Colds and Flu to Chronic Diseases

Family medicine doctors are our everyday heroes. They provide comprehensive primary healthcare to patients of all ages for a variety of conditions, such as colds, strep throat, and flu. They also help patients manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

In this blog, we will look at these health problems and at how your family doctor can help you manage them.

Colds

One of the most frequent conditions treated by family medicine doctors is the common cold. This viral infection affects millions of people every year and causes symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing and coughing.

Family doctors provide treatments to alleviate these symptoms and to prevent complications, such as pneumonia or middle ear infections. Also, your family doctor can show you ways to limit your exposure to the many seasonal viruses that cause the common cold.

Influenza

Flu is another acute condition that family medicine doctors see frequently. Influenza, like the common cold, is caused by a virus – typically, different ones that develop during the annual flu season.

Fortunately, today’s yearly influenza vaccines effectively protect against the flu. Your family doctor likely will recommend you receive one. Vaccinations can start as early as 6 months of age. Flu vaccines also are important if you are in a high-risk group, such as:

  • Being 65 or older
  • Having a chronic health condition, such as asthma or diabetes
  • Being a healthcare worker or routinely contacting medically fragile individuals (such as an elderly parent)

Your family doctor will discuss your risk factors with you as part of your annual physical examination.

Plus, as the flu, colds and other acute illnesses are highly contagious, your family doctor will give practical ways to reduce your risk of getting sick. Examples include thorough and frequent handwashing, staying out of crowds, and covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing.

Strep Throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection affecting the throat and tonsils. It is most common in children between the ages of five and 15 but can occur in adults as well.

Symptoms include a very sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Strep throat is highly contagious. It can spread through respiratory droplets or direct contact with an infected person.

If you suspect that you or your child has strep throat, see your family doctor. He or she will perform a physical examination and do a rapid strep test to confirm the presence of the bacteria. Treatment for strep throat usually involves antibiotics and comfort measures, such as fever-reducing medications, rest, and plenty of fluids.

Hypertension

Also called high blood pressure, hypertension is a very common chronic health condition in American adults. Classically defined as a blood pressure reading higher than 140/90 mmHg, hypertension more recently is recognized as anything higher than 130/80 mmHg.

Checking your blood pressure is an important part of your annual physical exam. This cardiovascular condition can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and more. Hypertension often has no symptoms, so it is known as a “silent killer.”

Your family medicine physician may prescribe medication to control your blood pressure. Be sure to take it as prescribed.

Also, your doctor may recommend changing some lifestyle habits, such as smoking, eating a fatty, salty diet and being sedentary. While you cannot change hereditary risk factors for hypertension, lifestyle changes are highly effective in avoiding or managing hypertension.

Diabetes

Consistently high levels of blood glucose are characteristic of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes develops due to obesity, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyle. Type 1 is related to the body’s inability to produce the hormone insulin. Because diabetes can run in families, your family doctor may suggest routine screening if you have close relatives with this disease.

If you are diagnosed with diabetes, carefully follow your doctor’s recommendations for managing the condition. This includes monitoring your blood glucose levels regularly, taking medication as prescribed and making necessary lifestyle changes. You must maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to control blood sugar levels.

Additionally, individuals with diabetes should be aware of health complications. These may include diabetic retinopathy, nerve damage in the feet and hands (neuropathy), heart disease, and kidney disease.

Your Family Doctor Provides Preventive Care and Chronic and Acute Disease Management in Wellington, FL

At Advanced Medical Clinic, we are passionate about family medicine. Internal medicine physician, Dr. Ishwan Gunawardene, and his wife, family nurse practitioner, Shariffa Gunawardene, provide patient-centered care for people of all ages and walks of life. So, whether you are a middle-aged adult, a parent with young children, or a senior with a few chronic conditions, we can help you enjoy the best possible health.

Contact us to learn more about our services or to arrange your annual physical. Call (561) 434-1935, or request your visit here.

Questions to Ask When Selecting a Family Medicine Provider

Your family medicine provider is more than just a provider—they are your healthcare partner, advocate, and guide through both wellness and illness. The decision to choose your primary care family medicine provider impacts not only the quality of care you receive but also your overall healthcare experience.

In this guide, we will explore the vital questions to ask when selecting a primary care family medicine provider. This can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your health needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

What to Ask When Selecting a Primary Care Family Medicine Provider

“What is your professional background and how many years have you been in practice?”

Inquire about their medical education, board certifications, and years of practice. This helps you understand their expertise and if they have encountered health concerns similar to yours.

“Are you board certified in family medicine or internal medicine?”

Board certification indicates that the family medicine provider has undergone rigorous testing and peer evaluation, demonstrating their knowledge and expertise in a specific medical field.

“What are your specializations and/or areas of interest?”

Some family medicine providers may have special training or interest in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, sports medicine, or chronic disease management.

Knowing this can be beneficial if you have specific health needs.

“How accessible is the location of your office and what are your business hours?”

Ensure their office is conveniently located and their hours align with your schedule. This includes asking about weekend or evening hours if your lifestyle requires flexibility.

“What is your availability for appointments and how do you handle urgent health concerns?”

Understanding how to schedule appointments and the wait time for urgent issues is crucial. Be sure to also ask if they offer telehealth services for convenience.

“What is your philosophy and approach towards patient care?”

This question helps you gauge if their philosophy of care aligns with your preferences.

Do they focus on preventive care, patient education, and holistic approaches, or are they more traditional?

“What is your preferred method for communicating with patients?”

Knowing if they are open to emails, phone calls, or use a patient portal for communication can influence your decision, especially if you prefer a more direct or digital communication method.

“How do you collaborate with other healthcare specialists?”

If you have or might need specialists, it is important to know how your family medicine provider will coordinate your overall care, including referrals and sharing medical information.

“Which insurance providers are you in-network with and what are your billing procedures?”

Confirming that they accept your insurance and understanding any potential out-of-pocket costs is essential to avoid unexpected expenses.

“Can you offer any references or share feedback from patients regarding their experiences with your care?”

While privacy laws may restrict specific details, asking for general feedback or places where you can find reviews about their practice can provide insights into their patient satisfaction levels.

These questions are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the primary care family medicine providers’:

  • Qualifications
  • Approach to care
  • Accessibility
  • Communication style
  • How they fit with your health needs and insurance

Taking the time to get these answers will help you make a more informed choice about your healthcare partner.

The Importance of Finding the Right Primary Care Family Medicine Provider

Choosing the right primary care family medicine provider significantly impacts your health and well-being for several key reasons:

  • Personalized Care: A suitable primary care provider tailors your healthcare plan to your unique needs, enhancing treatment effectiveness and preventive care.
  • Trust and Comfort: Comfort with your provider encourages open communication, crucial for accurate diagnoses and comprehensive care.
  • Long-term Health Management: A good primary care provider monitors your health over time, facilitating early detection of problems and more successful outcomes.
  • Coordination of Care: Your primary care provider is pivotal in managing your overall health, coordinating between specialists, and ensuring cohesive care.
  • Health Advocacy: The right provider advocates for you within the healthcare system, helping navigate insurance and referrals.
  • Preventive Care: Emphasizing preventive measures, the right primary care provider helps you avoid diseases through regular screenings and health advice.
  • Education and Empowerment: Beyond treatment, a good primary care provider educates and empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.
  • Mental and Emotional Support: Acknowledging the mental and emotional dimensions of health, the right family medicine provider offers support for related issues.

The Best Primary Care Family Medicine Provider Near Me in Wellington, FL

Selecting the right primary care family medicine provider is a significant step in your health and wellness journey. It is about finding someone who not only has the qualifications and experience to provide you with the best possible care but also someone whose communication style, approach to patient care, and values align with yours. By asking the questions outlined in this guide, you are taking an important step toward building a lasting relationship with your primary care provider.

Are you in search of the top primary care provider near you? If so, look no further than Advanced Medical, the most trusted family practice in Wellington, FL. Call us today at (561) 434-1935 so our friendly staff can provide closer assistance. Alternatively, you may schedule a visit with the top family medicine provider in Wellington, FL, through our secure and convenient online appointment request form.

We look forward to serving you!

How to Choose the Right Family Medicine Provider

A primary care provider is invaluable to staying on top of your health. The right family medicine provider will help you and your family receive the healthcare you need. You need to consider numerous factors to see if a new primary care provider is the right fit for your health care needs.

You can start looking for the best family medicine primary care provider by following the steps outlined below.

1. Get Recommendations

Ask friends, family members, and coworkers for recommendations for primary care providers they have had a positive experience with. You can also use online primary care provider search services to get more information about potential providers in your area. In addition, you can ask your other healthcare providers, such as your orthopedic provider or cardiologist.

2. Research Their Credentials

Once you’ve narrowed down the possible candidates, look into their credentials. Check their qualifications, including board certifications and education. Being board-certified in family medicine is a great sign of competence. It shows that they have met certain standards set by the American Board of Family Medicine.

3. Consider Their Experience and Services

Look for a primary care provider who has had plenty of experience treating patients with similar health issues as you do. You can also check their websites or online profiles to get an idea of their experience.

Ask the primary care provider’s office about what services they provide and how long it takes to schedule appointments. You want a provider who can offer convenient access to care when you need it.

4. Read Online Reviews

Search online for reviews from current and former patients. You can visit the primary care provider’s website and social media profiles for reviews, as well. Read what others are saying about the primary care provider. This will give you insight into the quality of service they provide.

5. Consider Your Insurance Coverage

You want to make sure that your family medicine provider is covered by your medical insurance. Call the primary care provider’s office and ask if they accept your insurance. You can also contact your plan provider to get a list of in-network primary care providers. This is a great starting point if you have no primary care provider recommendations from loved ones.

6. Research at Their Location and Availability

One of the most important factors when choosing a family primary care provider is convenience. Find out the location of their office and see if it is close to you. Your family provider will be your primary care provider. This means you’ll need to be able to get to them easily whenever you need care.

Also, check their hours of availability. Find out what days and times are best for appointments, so you can determine if they fit your schedule.

7. Schedule an Appointment

Meet the primary care provider once you feel satisfied with your online research. This is a great opportunity to assess the friendliness of the office staff and the cleanliness of the clinic.

An in-person visit will also help you learn about the primary care provider’s communication style. Ask if they are available for email or phone consultations, and if they are unavailable, is there someone else in the practice who can help? Ask as many questions as you like – this will help you assess if the primary care provider is friendly, a good communicator, and patient and detailed when seeing patients.

8. Make Sure You Are Comfortable

It is important to feel at ease with your family medicine provider. Make sure you have a good rapport and trust them. You want a primary care provider who will listen to and respect your opinions. They will be in charge of your health for a long time, so you should have a healthcare provider who makes you feel comfortable.

Your family care provider should:

  • Make you feel heard
  • Invite questions and have open communication
  • Treat you with respect and empathy

If you meet with a primary care provider and find yourself unsatisfied with your discussion, look for a different provider. What matters is finding a right primary care provider who can best handle your health concerns – no matter how long it takes.

Family Medicine Near You in Wellington, FL

A primary care provider is an important part of your healthcare team. The right family medicine provider can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being. When choosing a family medicine provider, consider experience and services, read online reviews, and check if they are covered by your insurance. Also, look at their location and availability, and book a visit to see if the primary care provider is a good fit for you.

Looking for a trusted family medicine practice near you in Wellington or Royal Palm Beach? You can rely on Advanced Medical, the best Wellington family practice. Our trusted primary care providers will see to it that you receive the best healthcare possible. You may call our friendly staff at (561) 434-1935. You can also use our online appointment request form to book a visit with the best family primary care provider in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach.

We look forward to being the best healthcare partner for you and your family!

The Essential Guide to Becoming a Family Medicine Provider

Family medicine providers are some of the best family medicine providers who can take care of you and your family. They can treat acute and chronic illnesses, provide preventive care, coordinate care with specialists, and even perform minor procedures. Becoming a provider of family medicine is no small feat, but it is incredibly rewarding.

Curious how family medicine providers pursue this specialization? Considering embarking on a journey to become a family medicine provider? Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you started:

1. 4-Year Undergraduate Degree

Most medical schools require applicants to have completed an accredited four-year college degree program. An aspiring family medicine provider’s coursework should include biology, chemistry, physics, and biochemistry. These courses help grasp the fundamentals of medical science. They also increase a person’s chances of being accepted into a medical school.

2. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

MCAT is a comprehensive standardized exam that assesses academic competency in several areas, including:

  • Biological and biochemical foundations of living systems
  • Chemical and physical foundations of biological systems
  • Psychological, social, and biological foundations of behavior
  • Critical analysis and reasoning skills

The results of this exam are used as part of the application process for medical school. It is important to note that scores must be competitive to get accepted into a top-tier medical school.

3. Medical School

Aspiring family medicine providers must complete four years of medical school. During this time, future providers learn the fundamentals of medicine and gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations.

With the clinical rotations, providers-in-training can specialize in family medicine and get a closer look at the field. They use this time by networking and learning from more experienced family providers, whom they get to see practice medicine firsthand.

4. United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)

USMLE is a three-step examination. It evaluates whether the provider-in-training has the knowledge and skills to practice medicine safely and competently according to set standards. The USMLE is a necessary step for anyone who wishes to become a family medicine provider in the United States.

5. Residency Training

After completing medical school and the USMLE, aspiring family medicine providers must complete residency training in a hospital or clinic. A family medicine residency usually takes three years. It includes completing rotations in family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, and obstetrics/gynecology.

During this time, future providers gain hands-on experience in treating patients and managing their care. Residency is excellent practice and ensures future family medicine providers are fully prepared to practice medicine independently.

6. Board Certification

The next step to becoming a family medicine provider is taking and passing the American Board of Family Medicine certification exam. Passing this exam allows providers to become board-certified in family medicine and practice independently. It also shows that family medicine providers have attained a high level of knowledge and experience in the field.

7. State Medical Licensure

Once the board exam is complete, family medicine providers must pass a state medical licensing exam to practice medicine legally. Different states have different requirements for licensure.

These requirements may include the following:

  • Taking additional exams
  • Completing an ethics course
  • Attending a certain number of continuing medical education (CME) courses
  • Providing proof of good moral character

What Does a Family Medicine Provider Do?

Family medicine providers provide comprehensive care for the entire family, from infants to elderly patients. They manage a wide range of health problems and can also provide preventive care. This includes immunizations, physical exams, health screenings, and more.

Additionally, family medicine providers often coordinate with other healthcare professionals to ensure their patients receive the best healthcare.

Some of the services that family medicine providers offer are:

  • Diagnosing and treating acute illnesses, like colds or the flu
  • Managing chronic health issues such as diabetes, asthma, and hypertension
  • Performing physical examinations for school, work, or sports
  • Prescribing medications when needed and providing patient education
  • Referring patients to specialists for further care, when necessary
  • Performing minor surgical procedures, such as circumcision, wart removals, and stitches
  • Caring for the emotional and mental health of patients

Family Medicine Near You in Wellington & Royal Palm Beach, FL

Becoming a family medicine provider is no easy feat. It requires dedication, hard work, and passion for the well-being of others. Family medicine providers complete four years of medical school, residency training, board certification exams, and state licensure. They provide comprehensive care for the entire family and refer patients to specialists when needed. It is a fulfilling and rewarding career for those who choose to pursue it.

Looking for family medicine near you in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach? You can depend on the best Wellington family practice, Advanced Medical. Our trusted, experienced, and compassionate family medicine providers are excited to care for you and your family. Call our friendly staff today at (561) 434-1935. You can also submit a secure appointment request form to book a visit with the best family providers in Wellington.

7 Tips for Finding a Family Medicine Facility Near You

There are many things to consider when trying to find a family medicine facility near you. With all the different factors you need to look out for, finding a facility near you can often feel like an overwhelming task – but it doesn’t have to be. Here are seven tips for finding the best family medicine facility for yourself and your family near you.

1. Consider the Location

When finding the right family medicine facility, you want to make sure it’s in the right location. Most often, we find patients only want to travel within 30 minutes of their home or office to see their primary care physician. If you’re searching for a family medicine provider for yourself and your loved ones around Wellington or Royal Palm Beach, Florida, consider a convenient facility like Advanced Medical Clinic.

2. Ask About Services

When choosing a family medicine provider to be your primary care provider, you want to make sure they offer the services you and your loved ones need. Common family medicine services patients typically search for when looking for a family medicine provider include:

  • School, work, and sports physicals
  • Chronic condition management
  • Treatment for a cough, cold, or flu
  • Mental health treatment
  • Treatment for car accidents/trauma

3. Look for Board-Certified Providers

One of the most important factors to consider when finding a primary care family medicine provider near you is finding a board-certified provider with plenty of experience. Board certifications are indications for patients that a provider is highly trained in their field. It means they could take and pass an all-encompassing medical exam in their field. Board certifications hold their providers to high standards, ensuring you get the care you need and deserve.

4. Ask About Referrals

Your primary care family medicine provider should be your go-to resource for all your medical needs – including referrals to specialists if you need them. Patients are often recommended to specialists if a primary care provider finds abnormalities or signs of a specific condition that a specialist in that field can better treat. For example, if you’re having signs of a heart condition, your family medicine provider should be able to refer you to a skilled and qualified cardiologist.

5. Consider Insurance Coverage

It’s important to be practical about your health care, including paying for your family medicine services. It’s always recommended to find a family medicine provider covered by insurance to ensure your out-of-pocket fees are kept at a minimum. If you’re unsure whether your preferred facility takes your insurance, give them a quick call to ask or contact your insurance provider for more information.

6. Look for Reviews

Before the internet, people found family medicine providers via word of mouth. Nowadays, there are reviews and testimonials that patients can use in the same way. Check out reviews for your facility of choice to see what real patients have to say about their experience with the practice and the provider. The better the reviews, the more likely you’ll have a positive experience at the facility.

7. Think About Your Individual Needs

Finally, and most importantly, consider your and your family member’s individual needs. Does your child have diabetes and needs help with managing their insulin levels? Or do you find you have chronic UTIs and are looking for a long-term solution? These are the questions you should be asking yourself when considering a family medicine provider near you. Remember, services are supposed to be tailored to your individual needs. Don’t be afraid to ask for personalized care.

Family Medicine Provider in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

Finding a quality family medicine facility near you is as easy as calling Advanced Medical Clinic. Our team of dedicated, compassionate board-certified primary care providers is proud to offer comprehensive, personalized care to you and your family members. Whether you’re feeling like you have the flu or need help managing your chronic condition, you can rely on the providers at Advanced Medical Clinic.

To make an appointment with our primary care providers, call us today at (561) 434-1935. You can also make an appointment online using our convenient online appointment request form.

Why Do You Need to Have a Family Medicine Provider?

It would help if you saw a specialist when an issue particular to your body’s organ or system arises. However, what about the times when you aren’t aware of what’s going on with your body that’s causing your symptoms; you want to take care of the overall health of not only yourself but also your family; you need advice specific to your situation? A family medicine provider is a medical professional who can be an answer for most such healthcare situations for you and your family. A family medicine provider is trained to provide all sorts of care to patients of all ages for long-term – medical emergencies are an exception.

So, there is no reason not to have a family medicine provider caring for you (even if you don’t have a family), but there are many reasons why you should have one. Let’s talk about those reasons.

Reason #1 All Primary Care Needs of You and Your Family Can Be Addressed Under One Roof

As a primary care provider, a family provider can offer primary health care – providing treatment for common health complaints, the management of long-term illnesses such as heart disease, asthma, and diabetes, and prevention of future illnesses through advice, screening programs, and immunization – to people of all ages. A family medicine provider can also perform minor surgical procedures such as draining abscesses.

Since they master specific skill sets such as women’s health, geriatrics, obstetrics, and more, during their training, their office is the first stop of patients of all ages – from newborns to senior citizens – for primary health care needs. They also keep track of your family life cycle to provide you with comprehensive care.

Reason #2 You Can Connect with Specialists Timely and Easily

Your family medicine provider can indeed do a lot for you, but they can’t do everything, especially if your problem is related to a particular body system or organ, let’s say the heart. Only a specialist of an organ or system can treat such problems. Finding a trustworthy specialist within your budget and reliable can be stressful for you and your family.

Having a family medicine provider means your problem will be detected early, and you don’t have to be worried about finding a specialist. Family medicine providers are likely to have a relationship with many specialists and can refer you to the one you can be comfortable with. Moreover, they can also help you set an appointment with your new family medicine provider without wasting much time.

Reason #3 You Can Get Better Health and Save Money at The Same Time

There’s no secret that healthcare can be pretty expensive, as is evident from the fact that even a short trip to the emergency room can cost you and your family a great deal of money. However, there is ample evidence that having a family medicine provider can significantly reduce healthcare spending.

A family medicine provider does so(reduce your healthcare spending)by keeping track of your health and preventing serious issues from developing, which could otherwise make you spend an extreme amount at the hospital or emergency room.

Family Medicine Provider Near Me in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

At Advanced Medical Clinic, our nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene provides comprehensive, evidence-based, and personalized care that you need to return your family to health and keep you well. Because of her comprehensive and compassionate care, you or your family members with acute or chronic illnesses can live healthier lives. To make an accurate diagnosis, we also offer on-site conveniences, including pulmonary function tests, EKG, echocardiography, and blood draw.

If you have a question about our services or would like to schedule an appointment with our providers, call our staff today at  (561) 434-1935 or complete our secure online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!

What Is Unique About Family Medicine?

There are so many primary care providers today who specialize in specific areas of medicine – such as orthopedics (the musculoskeletal system), neurology (the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system), endocrinology (secretions, especially of hormones, such as insulin), and ophthalmology (the eyes). However, you will ideally have a general practitioner who will not only keep track of all your reports from your various specialists, but also administer vaccinations and perform bloodwork and a urinalysis to check for any new infections or diseases at your annual checkup.

General practitioners (GPs) for adults are called internists, and GPs for children are called pediatricians. Bringing it all together are family medicine practitioners, who can treat health issues of all kinds and in people of all ages.

The broad scope of family medicine is what makes it unique, and you don’t have to have a family to see a family medicine provider. Let’s talk about what is involved in family medicine, what sets it apart from other medical specialties, and where you can go in Wellington to see an outstanding family practitioner who can help you stay healthy.

Primary Care for All Ages

Family medicine providers can care for every member of the family, from infants to the elderly. They administer annual checkups, monitor chronic illnesses, and make sure that a patient doesn’t have new medications that have contraindications with each other – meaning that they counteract, rendering them unhelpful or even harmful to your body.

Comprehensive and Preventive Care

With their breadth of experience, family medicine practitioners are able to provide comprehensive care to patients throughout their lifetime. They are able to tailor each patient’s treatment plan according to the patient’s unique needs and preferences.

Family practitioners address various aspects of a patient’s overall health, such as:

  • Sleep
  • Energy levels
  • Nutrition
  • Blood pressure
  • Weight
  • Mental health
  • Mobility
  • Chronic conditions
  • Injury prevention
  • Pain relief
  • Memory

Family medicine practitioners provide preventive care, which includes health screenings, immunizations, and wellness checks. The healthcare provider will spend time with you and listen to what you have to say about health and wellness concerns.

Baseline Healthcare Practitioner

Medical specialists focus on their specialty alone, they don’t administer flu shots and check all of your vitals for other health conditions. However, primary care providers such as family practitioners act as coordinators of your overall care, making sure you get the treatment you need, and may refer you to specialists if necessary in order for you to reach optimal health and wellness.

Family Medicine Practitioner in Wellington, FL

Here at Advanced Medical Clinic, our staff is highly experienced and provides exceptional, compassionate primary care for the whole family. Our family medicine practitioner is Shariffa Gunawardene, and she treats patients with a preventive approach and a treatment approach – including helping you manage injuries and illnesses. She is known in Palm Beach County for her compassionate nature and her commitment to your health.

For any questions or to schedule an appointment with Nurse Practitioner Gunawardene, call our Wellington primary care clinic today at (561) 434-1935 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your family healthcare provider!

Family Practice vs. General Practice: What’s the difference?

With so many advanced types of family medicine providers and medical specializations, it’s no wonder people get them confused so often. You probably know what kind of provider you need for heart disease or joint pain, but what about those times when you don’t have an idea what’s causing your symptoms? Do you go to your family practice or general practice? What exactly is the difference between these two practices?

Let’s explore the difference between family practice and general practice, the types of services they provide, and the patients they attend to.

Family Practice vs. General Practice

Family practice is a clinic of providers that offer primary medical care. To get family practitioner services, you register with a family practice. Your family primary care provider gets to know your entire medical history, as well as your family’s, and becomes your partner in maintaining overall health and wellness. Family medicine providers provide care to all patients irrespective of their age.

General practice is similar to urgent care or a general health clinic. General practitioners offer general medical services to patients of all ages but do not typically specialize in a particular area. Besides treating your medical condition, your GP also identifies the areas that need continued care from a specialist.

Specialization and services from family practice vs. general practice

In medicine, family practice is a specialty field. Your family medicine provider receives specialized training in diagnosing and treating the entire range of medical conditions that affect all family members. Since family medicine providers focus on the whole family’s needs, they often receive training in pediatrics, geriatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. They offer a wide range of urgent care, sick, and preventive care services, including:

  • Asthma and allergies
  • Chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, bronchitis, and diabetes (type 1 and type 2)
  • Physicals for school, sports, camp, employment, and insurance
  • Coughs, colds, and flu treatments
  • DOT physicals
  • Tonsillitis
  • Strep throat
  • Weight management
  • Health-risk assessments
  • Family planning
  • Immunizations
  • Whiplash and other auto-accident/workers’ comp trauma
  • Women’s health, including gynecologic exams and preventive care

A general practitioner is a provider who works in clinical settings such as urgent care centers, hospitals, and clinics.  They diagnose and treat a wide range of medical issues. General practitioners do not specialize in any particular area. Your general practitioner will keep your clinical record, which helps him refer you to a specialist. Your general practitioner can also perform minor suturing and wound treatment.

General practice clinics have labs and diagnostic machines to perform medical testing to further diagnose certain conditions. Their main goal is to treat you and keep you out of the hospital.

Types of patients

A family practice offers care for your entire family unit: male and female adults and children of all ages. Family medicine providers offer care to patients of all ages throughout their lives. They offer care to multiple generations at the same time.

A general practitioner also sees patients of all ages but for milder diseases, such as the common cold, affecting the entire body. Once treated, you are less likely to visit a general practitioner over and over again.

Wellington Family Practice, FL

Seeing a family medicine provider frequently is linked to better health outcomes. If you don’t have one yet, Wellington Family practice is accepting patients. At Advanced Medical Clinic, our board-certified family practitioners are dedicated to delivering compassionate, patient-oriented, and evidence-based care to you and your family.

To learn more about the services we offer, or to arrange a visit, call us today at (561) 434-1935, or you can request an appointment online. We offer same-day and walk-in appointments for your convenience.

Benefits Of Going To A Family Medicine Practice

A family medicine practice offers many benefits to individuals and families seeking a family medicine provider for primary care services. A primary care provider is your first point of contact for medical care. This is the first family medicine provider you see when you get sick, need a check-up or vaccine, or want to get your symptoms evaluated.

With different types of primary care providers to choose from, it’s important that you know what makes family medicine providers a top choice for most people. Here are some of the biggest benefits of going to a family medicine practice.

Convenience

Family medicine providers are trained and experienced in seeing patients of all ages. If you have a family, this can be extremely convenient for you. Instead of having different primary care provider for yourself, your children, and your parents, everyone can be seen at a family medicine practice. This can translate into significant saved time, money, and energy. For instance, you can schedule annual check-ups or the flu shot for the entire family at the same time and place.

Familiarity with Family Medical History

Another important benefit of being part a family medicine practice is that you and your family members will be taken care of long-term. For instance, if a certain illness runs in your family, your family medicine provider will be on the lookout when caring for your parents, you, and your children. Your family medicine provider will understand how the health of your parents can influence your health, and how your health can influence your children’s health. An example of this is heart disease, colon cancer, and diabetes – all of which can be passed down in families. Having a family medicine provider with insight into your entire family’s health history is invaluable.

Continuity of Care

Another benefit of seeing a family care provider is continuity of care for you and your family. A family medicine provider can treat patients of all ages, from newborns to geriatric patients. This means your children can see their childhood provider when they become adults without any issues. It also means that you won’t have to change providers as you get older and your healthcare needs change. Due to their experience in providing primary care for all age groups, a family medicine provider will be able to take care of you at every stage of life.

Personalized Preventative Care

Getting treatment for illnesses is not the only reason to visit a family medicine practice. When it comes to your health, prevention is always the key. Your family care provider is your partner in maintaining your overall health and well-being. They can recognize patterns in your health over time and see which illnesses you are prone to develop. So, the care they give will be tailor-fitted to your needs.

Here at Advanced Medical Clinic in Wellington, we have a holistic approach to health. Our services go far beyond simply treating illnesses as they sprout up, and include:

●      Weight control and nutritional guidance

●      Techniques in managing stress and depression

●      Contraception and fertility counseling

●      Strategies on how to maximize physical exercise

Diagnostic Services

Family medicine practices are equipped to provide diagnostic services that are commonly required for primary care. Examples of diagnostic services you can take advantage of at a family medicine practice include:

●      Blood draws

●      EKG

●      Echocardiography

●      Pulmonary function testing

●      MRIs

●      CT scans

Family Practice in Wellington, FL

If you’re looking for excellent primary care from a family practice in Wellington, FL, your search is over. Advanced Medical Clinic is a leading facility for family health. Our team of providers focuses on achieving optimal health for you and your family. We do this by administering compassionate and patient-centered care.

We have offices conveniently located in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida. If you want to visit us or learn more about our services, give us a call at (561) 434-1935. You can also request an appointment online.

How Do I Find the Right Family Medicine Provider for Me?

Having a family medicine provider, as research shows, is linked to better health outcomes. But there’s one other great reason to have a family medicine provider, and that is the provider-patient relationship you can rely on for your and your family’s healthcare needs over the long term.

If you don’t have a family medicine provider or are not at ease with whom you’re currently seeing, now is the time to find a new one—one you can see yourself establishing a lifelong relationship with. Don’t wait till you or a family member gets ill. Pressure and illness can cause you to make a hasty, uninformed decision.

Here are some simple tips to help you streamline your search for the right family medicine provider for you.

  • Gather several recommendations.

The first step in finding the best family medicine provider is to get lots of referrals.

Ask your family, relatives, friends, and colleagues. Word-of-mouth recommendations are inherently reliable, as they come from people you personally know and trust.

You can also get referrals from other medical practitioners. Talk to your dentist or therapist. They possibly work with general practitioners, so they are in a position to recommend a family medicine provider who fits your family’s needs.

  • Do an internet search.

The World Wide Web is replete with resources that can help you find the right family medicine provider for you.  You can find information about the practice’s business hours and the provider’s credentials on their website.

Additionally, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) website has a helpful database that allows you to verify the practitioner’s board certification status, the number of years they have spent in practice, and whether they have any medical malpractice history. 

  • Check their location.

Distance is one important factor that many tend to overlook. Twenty miles may only seem like a quick ride, but if you need to take time off work to drive there, then it can be inconvenient.

There are big advantages to having a family medicine provider whose office is located close to where you live or work. This lessens the burden of having to travel far and ensures you have fewer hindrances to showing up for your appointments.

  • Read reviews.

In this day and age, it is very easy to find out about a medical practitioner’s reputation. Online reviews, though not necessarily a deciding factor, can help you make an informed decision with greater confidence.

You can find the answers to your own questions about the attitude of the family medicine provider or the staff, quality of services, and wait times by reading reviews, which you can find either on the practice’s website and/or social media page.    

  • Schedule a visit.

This is a great way to ascertain the family medicine provider’s bedside manner and communication style, both of which have a huge impact on your confidence in their care and expertise as well as your overall experience.

Talk to the family medicine providers you have on your list and observe whether they have a soothing bedside manner and communicate effectively.

Are they able to explain complex medical concepts? Do they answer all your questions politely? Do you feel comfortable talking to them? If you answer no to any of these questions, it might be a sign that they may not be the right one for you.

Family Medicine Provider in Wellington, FL

If you’re searching for the right family medicine provider in the Wellington area in Florida, visit us at Advanced Medical Clinic for a consultation with our board-certified nurse practitioner, Shariffa Gunawardene. She is as equipped to provide you and your family with the highest quality of primary care services— the very same one you get from a family medicine provider in Wellington.

Call us at (561) 434-1935 to set an appointment with our highly qualified family medicine provider. You can also use our convenient online request form.