Internal Medicine

Choosing a doctor can sometimes be a daunting task--especially if you're looking for one that can manage your overall healthcare needs.

One option is an internist. These physicians treat only adults, from 18 years old through the geriatric years. Internists are also called doctors of internal medicine and specialist in treating common adult health condition such as hypertension, to more complex diseases processes like diabetes and others.

Comprehensive Care for Adults

Internists take care of the patient, working to prevent illness as well as to diagnose and treat it. That includes both common and complex problems. For example, internists treat illnesses from simple infections to cancer or heart disease. They can also treat substance abuse and mental illness. Internists don't, however, deliver babies or perform surgery. However, they can serve as a source of information and advocate to refer you to a specialized physician who can meet your needs.
Internal medicine doctors at Lake Charles Memorial Health System are the access point to specialty care – from orthopedics, cardiology, rheumatology, and surgical services – just to name a few. Your internal medicine doctor can refer you to other specialties within the Memorial health system to care for all your healthcare needs, in one place.
Becoming an internist requires seven or more years of medical school and postgraduate training. Some internists return to school to become certified in a subspecialty, such as geriatrics or oncology. This training can take an additional one to three years.

Many adults choose an internist to be their primary care physician.

A primary care physician is often the first medical professional you see when you're sick. They are specifically trained to act as personal doctors, providing long-term, comprehensive care.