The general practitioner (GP), also known as a family doctor, is usually the first point of contact a patient has with the medical system. If the complaint falls outside the GP's generalized medical education, he might refer the patient to a doctor specializing in a particular body system, such as an internist.
Features
A GP tends to basic ailments like colds, flu, sinus and respiratory infections, and broken bones, and performs annual checkups. An internist specializes in diagnosing and treating problems related to internal organs -- primarily stomach, kidneys, liver and digestive tract.
Types
Both GPs and internists are considered primary care providers. The GP operates with a long-term base of regular clients, while an internist accepts referrals from GPs and other specialists.
Function
Neither a GP or internist performs surgery. Both treat patients with tests, diagnosis, medicine and referrals to surgeons, if necessary.
Identification
Both internists and GPs can be certified as medical doctors (MD) or doctors of osteopathy (OD). While the MD will employ a more traditional approach, the OD may look for answers in the body's musculoskeletal system, as well as employ a more preventive or holistic approach.
The Facts
A GP provides ongoing care for all ages. An internist is likely to find his clientele mostly adult who come to him for a particular complaint.
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