Internist

An internist is a medical specialist who specializes in internal organs. The specialty is called internal medicine. An internist treats diseases of the internal organs and primarily treats adults.

What does an internist do?

An internist supports, examines and treats diseases of the internal organs and also works to prevent them. Internal organs include the heart, lungs, blood vessels, kidneys, liver, hormones, thyroid, stomach and intestines. Conditions such as diabetes are also treated by an internist.

Because this is a broad field, an internist may specialize in:

• Kidney diseases
• Stomach and intestinal diseases
• Allergies
• Cancer
• Blood disorders
• Geriatric medicine
• Infectious diseases
• Vascular diseases

How do you see an internist?

You can only see an internist with a referral from a primary care physician or another medical specialist. The assistant often asks about your symptoms when scheduling the appointment to ensure you see the appropriate specialist. You do not have to answer these questions.

What is a first appointment with an internist like?

The internist first discusses your symptoms and asks about your general health and medical history. An examination follows. The tests are usually scheduled on the same day, so the first appointment may last several hours.

What tests does an internist perform?

An internist may perform or order the following tests:

• Physical examination (height, weight, blood pressure)
• Urinalysis
• Blood tests
• Ultrasound
• Lung examination
• ECG
• CT scan
• MRI scan

The test results are usually not all available immediately. A follow-up appointment is scheduled when they are available. A treatment plan is created after discussing the results.

What treatments does an internist provide?

Treatment may consist of medication or lifestyle advice. If surgery is needed, the internist refers the patient to another specialist. Internists do not perform surgery. They often remain the point of contact throughout treatment, especially when there is no single cause or the condition is chronic. The internist usually coordinates the entire hospital care pathway.

How can you prepare for your first visit to an internist?

• Write down your symptoms and medical history. The internist asks many questions, and writing everything down beforehand helps you remember.
• Write down your own questions so you do not forget them.
• Bring someone with you. You receive a lot of information during the first visit, and it is helpful to have someone else listen too.
• Consider your clothing. Exposing an arm is usually sufficient for most tests, but an ultrasound may require removing your top.