Are ER Doctors and Family Medicine Doctors Similar?

When accidents or sicknesses strike, knowing which doctor to call can save you stress, money, and time while ensuring you get the treatment you need when you need it. Learn the differences and similarities between ER doctors and family medicine doctors, the types of patients they treat, and their unique roles and duties to help you be better prepared.

How They Are Alike

Family medicine doctors and ER doctors are very similar in that they both provide care for people who are ill or injured, helping them to recover as quickly as possible. They also both work with a broad range of patients, ranging from infants to the elderly. Both types of doctors also spend much of their time interacting directly with patients, either discussing their treatment plans or administering hands-on care.

However, there are some key differences between family medicine doctors and ER doctors. For example, family medicine doctors typically focus more on preventive health measures. In addition, family medicine doctors often have a long-term relationship with their patients, while ER docs often see new patients each day. Despite these differences, both types of doctors play an essential role in delivering high-quality health care for patients.

Family Medicine Doctors Are Primary Care Physicians

Family medicine doctors are typically physicians focused on primary care, after completing a three-year residency program specialized in family medicine. This means that they are the first doctor you will see when you are sick or injured. They will treat common illnesses and injuries and will also help you to stay healthy.

Family medicine doctors often have a long-term relationship with their patients, and they can offer care for the whole family.

ER Doctors (Internal Medicine Doctors)

ER doctors, on the other hand, are specialists. ER doctors are typically physicians focused on emergent and urgent care, after completing a three- or four-year residency program specialized in emergency medicine. They are trained to treat more serious acute illnesses and injuries.

Emergency physicians work in hospitals, and they see patients who have been referred to them by other doctors. ER doctors usually do not have a long-term relationship with their patients, and they usually only see them once.

When Should You See a Family Medicine Doctor?

If you have a common illness or injury, or if you need to see a doctor for routine care, then you should see a family medicine doctor.

If you have a minor cut or scrape, your family doctor can usually treat it without any problem. However, if you have a deep cut that requires stitches, then you should go to the emergency room.

When Should You See an ER Doctor?

There are certain times when it’s better to see an ER doctor instead of a family doctor. If you’re experiencing a life-threatening condition, for example, you should obviously go to the ER. But there are other, less obvious situations when the ER may be a better option.

If you have a serious injury, such as a broken bone or a deep cut, you should go to the ER. You should also go to the ER if you’re experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or an uncontrolled bleed. These are all potentially serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.

Of course, if you’re not sure whether you need to go to the ER, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. After all, it’s better to waste a little time in the waiting room than risk your life by going untreated.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or conditions, be sure to visit the ER right away. Your health and well-being may depend on it!

Connect With a Reputable Doctor at Brevard Health Alliance Today!

Experience quality emergency and primary care with the family medicine physicians at Brevard Health Alliance in Florida. In addition to preventive care, patients can receive help for acute and chronic illnesses including walk-in and after-hour issues. Become a patient today and discover your new medical home with Brevard Health Alliance. Our goal is to improve your overall health and wellbeing!