When Should You See an Internal Medicine Doctor?

If you’ve ever been curious about what an internal medicine doctor does, you’re not alone. Many people wonder exactly what internal medicine is, or if they are even eligible to see this type of physician.

Don’t be intimidated by an unfamiliar title… internal medicine doctors are simply primary care physicians for adults from 18 to around 65 years old.

As a primary care provider, internal medicine doctors (also called internists) are trained in various subspecialties of medicine to ensure they are well prepared to care for the variety of conditions that commonly afflict adults. From diabetes to allergies to asthma, internal medicine doctors have a wide knowledge base! Internal medicine doctors are also able to write prescriptions and make referrals to specialists when needed.

Is an internist right for me?

If you are an adult, an internal medicine doctor could be a good choice for you. As your primary care physician, you’ll want to see your internal medicine doctor at least once each year for a checkup, along with any time you’re not feeling well, need an immunization, and as a first point of contact with virtually any medical questions or issues.

As the Gulf Coast’s premier internist, Dr. Kavita Rao, M.D. also places a significant emphasis on disease prevention and management. We don’t ever want patients to feel like we’re only treating their symptoms, because truly managing chronic diseases requires a more holistic approach. Through education and support, we want all of our patients to understand their disease process and know exactly what to do to feel better!

Medical care with trust, care, and compassion

Choosing a primary care physician is a lot more than just picking out a title. Just like any other relationship, chemistry is important. You want trust and rapport with your doctor so that you feel completely comfortable sharing your personal health information.

Come find out why so many St. Pete residents trust Dr. Rao and her team for all of their primary medical concerns! Call us at (727) 525-0900 or contact us online to schedule your first appointment today. Take control of your health with high-quality medical care centered around whole body well-being in an inviting and compassionate setting!