Primary care physicians (PCP) are responsible for your health for the entirety of your life — they’ll be the first to spot disease and help you navigate the health care system. They can be categorized into different sub-specialties, including family physicians, internists, and geriatricians. Some physicians are better with patients, some focus more on diagnoses, and others do both equally well. Knowing which kind is best for you can be tricky.
Below is vital information on four types of primary care physicians in Sonoma to help you know which doctor will be best for you to see.
Internal Medicine – For Ages 18 to 100+
Internal medicine doctors, often called internists, are trained to provide patient-centered care to adults, primarily between 18 and 100+. They diagnose and treat adult-onset medical problems requiring more than basic first aid, such as lung and heart diseases. Internists are exclusively trained in preventive medicine, including routine physical examinations and immunizations. They also may provide long-term care for chronic health problems and disorders like asthma, hypertension, and diabetes.
You can check online for information on primary care physicians in Sonoma. Based on the general internist’s experience, location, and specialties, you can be sure they are suitable for your needs.
Family Medicine – For Infants to Elders
Family medicine doctors provide a broad spectrum of primary care to all family members throughout their lifespan. They are specialized in one or more areas of medicine, including obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics, sports medicine, women’s health, and cardiovascular disease. It makes them well-rounded primary care physicians capable of caring for adults, pregnant women, children, and elders alike. They can handle most common health issues and manage complex or chronic conditions that require long-term care. Besides handling routine checkups, family medicine physicians can help maintain a healthy lifestyle.
They are also often responsible for referring their family patients to specialists when their health problems require advanced treatment that family practice doctors cannot provide.
Geriatrician – For Elder Patients (60 to 100+)
Geriatricians, also known as gerontologists, focus on the health and care of people between 60 and 100+. They specialize in treating medical conditions that are acute and connected with aging, such as diabetes and arthritis. Geriatricians also provide care for elderly patients at risk of developing certain conditions that could significantly impair their ability to function independently or live safely in the community. They work collaboratively with other specialists to provide preventive care and treatment options to retain function and improve upon it if possible.
If you are 60 years or older, need extra support, and have one or multiple chronic conditions, see a geriatrician primary care doctor in Sonoma.
Pediatrician – From Newborns to 18-year-Old
Pediatricians, also called pediatric doctors, specialize in caring, diagnosing, and treating infants and children from birth to adolescence. The pediatrician’s job is to ensure that each patient receives the best care possible and that all of their physical, emotional, and social needs are met. In addition, they care for children with all types of health problems, including injuries, infections, and chronic illnesses such as hyperactivity disorder, asthma, and epilepsy.
A pediatrician oversees a child’s medical care, growth, development, and helps educate parents on how they can provide their child with the best preventative care possible.
Ready to Find Your Doctor?
Choosing a primary care physician is one of the most critical health care decisions you can make. To find the right fit while looking for a doctor, you should consider your health needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Dr. Guy has been helping residents in Sonoma maintain their health for years. He has the necessary compassion and experience to help his patients live their best lives. To schedule an appointment with our primary care physician in Sonoma, call (707) 938-1255.
