internists

Internists are physicians who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and non-surgical treatment of diseases in adults. They provide comprehensive care for patients with acute illnesses, chronic diseases, and complex multisystem conditions. They often serve as primary care physicians for adults, coordinating care with other specialists when needed.

Education and training typically begin with medical school, followed by a residency in internal medicine that lasts about three years in the United States. Many internists pursue subspecialty fellowships in areas such as cardiology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, pulmonology, nephrology, rheumatology, or oncology. In some health systems, hospitalists—internists who focus on inpatient care—are a common practice model.

Practice and scope: General internists care for adult patients across the spectrum of diseases, from preventive care and wellness to chronic disease management and complex diagnoses. They manage conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, infectious diseases, and autoimmune disorders. They interpret laboratory and imaging results, develop comprehensive treatment plans, and coordinating care with other specialists and services when appropriate.

Differences and certification: Internists differ from family physicians, who treat patients of all ages and often emphasize broad lifestyle and preventive measures, and from surgeons who perform operations. In many countries, internal medicine physicians pursue board certification or eligibility through national boards, such as the American Board of Internal Medicine in the United States, with ongoing maintenance of certification requirements.

Work settings: Internists work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, academic medical centers, and research or teaching roles. Some combine outpatient practice with hospital shifts, while others focus primarily on one setting.