Internist

An internist is a medical specialist who specializes in all internal organs. The specialty is called internal medicine. An internist therefore treats diseases of the internal organs, mainly in adults.

What does an internist do?

An internist supports, assesses and treats diseases of the internal organs. Preventing diseases of the internal organs is also part of the specialty. Internal organs include the heart, lungs, blood vessels, kidneys, liver, hormones, thyroid, stomach and intestines. Diseases such as diabetes are also treated by an internist.

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

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

How do you see an internist?

You can see an internist only with a referral, which may come from a family doctor or another medical specialist. Symptoms are often discussed when making the appointment. You do not have to answer these questions; they are asked to schedule you with the appropriate specialist.

What is a first appointment with an internist like?

The internist first discusses the symptoms and asks about your general health and medical history. This is followed by an examination. The tests are usually scheduled on the same day where possible. The first appointment may therefore last several hours.

What tests does an internist perform?

An internist can perform or order the following tests:

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

The results are usually not all available immediately. Once they are available, a follow-up appointment is scheduled. A treatment plan is prepared after the results are discussed.

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, as internists never perform surgery. The internist often remains the point of contact throughout care because there may not be a single cause or the disease may be 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 mainly asks many questions. Writing everything down beforehand helps you remember it all.
• 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 if someone else listens too.
• Consider your clothing. Exposing one arm is often enough for most tests, but an ultrasound may require you to remove your upper clothing.