Internists Near Me in Winston-Salem, NC

Internal medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Internal Medicine Doctors (also called internists) are trained to diagnose and treat a range of conditions, from common illnesses like the flu, to chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Internists also often serve as primary care doctors, providing ongoing care to patients and coordinating their care with other other medical specialists as needed.

An internal medicine doctor, also known as an internist, is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the internal organs of the body. Some of the things that an internal medicine medicine doctor may do include:

• Diagnose and treat diseases that affect the internal organs of the body, such as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys
• Serve as a primary care doctor, providing ongoing care to patients and coordinating their care with other medical specialists as needed
• Conduct physical exams to assess patients' overall health and check for any abnormalities or symptoms of disease
• Order and interpret laboratory tests and imaging studies to help diagnose medical conditions
• Prescribe medications and other treatments to manage and treat medical conditions
• Monitor patients' progress and adjusts treatments as needed
• Educate patients on how to maintain and improve their health, including providing advice on diet, exercise, and stress management.

The specific duties of an Internal Medicine Doctor may vary depending on the needs of their patients and the policies of the healthcare facility where they work. At Oak Street Health, our Internal Medicine Physicians in Winston-Salem, NC develop preventive care plans to help you achieve your physical and mental health goals. Get the care you deserve. Schedule an in-person, phone, or video visit with a trusted internal medicine doctor today.

Internal medicine doctors, also known as internists, are specialized in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of conditions in adult patients. They are primary care physicians who provide comprehensive medical care for adults. Some of the conditions that internal medicine doctors commonly treat include:

• Chronic medical conditions: Internal medicine doctors manage and treat chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), arthritis, and thyroid disorders.
• Infectious diseases: They diagnose and treat various infectious diseases, including respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and viral illnesses.
• Gastrointestinal disorders: Internal medicine doctors manage gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), liver diseases, and pancreatitis.
• Respiratory disorders: They diagnose and treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and sleep apnea.
• Kidney diseases: Internal medicine doctors manage kidney diseases such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and disorders of electrolyte balance.
• Endocrine disorders: They diagnose and treat endocrine disorders such as diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, adrenal gland disorders, and disorders of the pituitary and parathyroid glands.

These are just a few examples, and internal medicine doctors are trained to handle a wide range of medical conditions. They also focus on preventive care, health promotion, and overall well-being.

Deciding whether to see an internal medicine doctor or a family practice physician depends on various factors, including your age, medical history, and specific health concerns. Here are some general guidelines:

Internal Medicine Doctor

• Adult patients: Internal medicine doctors typically focus on adult patients, including young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults.
• Complex medical conditions: If you have multiple chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, or kidney disease, an internal medicine doctor may be a good fit. They are trained to manage complex medical conditions and coordinate care among different specialists.
• Specialized care: Internal medicine doctors often have subspecialties, such as cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, or pulmonology. If you require specialized care within the field of internal medicine, they may provide more targeted expertise.

Family Practice Physician

• All age groups: Family practice physicians care for patients of all ages, from infants to older adults. They offer primary care for the entire family.
• Comprehensive care: Family practice physicians provide a wide range of primary care services, including preventive care, routine check-ups, management of chronic conditions, vaccinations, and minor procedures.
• Continuity of care: These doctors typically emphasize long-term relationships with their patients, providing comprehensive and continuous care for individuals and their families throughout their lifespan.

Ultimately, the decision between an internal medicine doctor and a family practice physician depends on your specific healthcare needs, age, and personal preference. It can be helpful to consult with your healthcare provider or seek recommendations from friends or family members who have had positive experiences with a particular type of doctor.

Yes, Medicare covers internal medicine services. Internal medicine is considered a primary care specialty, and Medicare provides coverage for primary care services, including those provided by internal medicine doctors. Here are some key points regarding Medicare coverage for internal medicine:

• Medicare Part B: Medicare Part B covers medically necessary services provided by internal medicine doctors, including office visits, preventive care, diagnostic tests, and evaluations.
• Preventive services: Medicare covers several preventive services provided by internal medicine doctors, such as annual wellness visits, screenings for various conditions, vaccinations, and counseling services.
• Chronic disease management: Medicare provides coverage for the management and treatment of chronic conditions by internal medicine doctors. This includes visits related to managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, and respiratory conditions.
• Specialist referrals: If an internal medicine doctor determines that you require specialized care, Medicare will cover visits to specialists and any necessary tests or treatments recommended by those specialists.

It's important to be aware that Medicare coverage may involve deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, which can vary depending on the specific type of Medicare plan you have (Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage) and the services received. It's advisable to review your Medicare plan and consult with your healthcare provider to understand the details of your coverage for internal medicine services.

Call (888) 812-1183 to find an Internal Medicine doctor in Winston-Salem, NC and learn more about becoming a patient at Oak Street Health. You can also stop by your nearest center or fill out a become a patient form, and we'll be in touch.