A family doctor is an M.D. or medical doctor, who practices general medicine. Usually he is the first physician that most people will visit. A family doctor can treat minor ailments such as sprains and cuts, cold that need stitches, and also gives vaccinations and physical examinations for your overall health and wellbeing.
If your condition needs the care of a specialist, family doctor will refer you to the specialist. Nowadays, most of the families like to have a general practice or family practice doctor that can care for the whole family.
Here are few ideas that help you to find a family practice physician in your area:
Try to get referrals from your family and also friends. Referrals are the best way to find a good family doctor. Make a consultation visit with each doctor and ask your questions. It is best to meet the doctor face to face to get a better idea if their philosophy about health and their personality are a good match for you and your family.
You can contact American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) to get better idea. There you will find list of family doctors in each state. The best way to contact AAFP is through the internet.
Also, you can contact the local hospital or urgent care center to know more about the details. Talk with the head nurse or office manager. Through this you will know which family doctors are good in your area.
Another good source to check for family doctors is WebMD. In this, you can search for family doctors in your region. Select the state, city and the type of doctor you want.
Family doctor you choose should be good with kids, as well as adults (Adult Health Care). Your doctor should be able to arrange an appointment without long delays.
