Internal medicine specialist

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

What does an internal medicine specialist do?

An internal medicine specialist 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 internal medicine specialist.

Because this is a broad field, specialists may focus on areas such as:

• Kidney diseases
• Gastrointestinal diseases
• Allergies
• Cancer
• Blood diseases
• Geriatric medicine
• Infectious diseases
• Vascular diseases

How do you see an internal medicine specialist?

You can only see an internal medicine specialist with a referral, from a GP or another medical specialist. You may be asked about your symptoms when making an appointment. You do not have to answer, but this helps you get booked with the appropriate specialist.

What is a first appointment with an internal medicine specialist like?

The specialist first discusses your symptoms and general health and medical history. This is followed by an examination. Tests are usually planned for the same day, so the first appointment may last several hours.

What tests are performed?

The specialist may perform or arrange:

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

Results are usually not all available immediately. A follow-up appointment is arranged once they are available, and a treatment plan is then developed.

What treatments does an internal medicine specialist provide?

Treatment may involve medication or lifestyle advice. If surgery is needed, the specialist refers you onwards, as they never perform surgery. They often remain the main contact throughout treatment, particularly when there is no single cause or the disease is chronic. They usually coordinate the entire hospital care pathway.

How can you prepare for your first visit to an internal medicine specialist?

• Write down your symptoms and medical history. The specialist asks many questions, and writing everything down beforehand helps you remember.
• Write down your own questions.
• Bring someone with you. You receive a lot of information, and it helps if someone else listens too.
• Consider your clothing. Exposing an arm is usually enough for most tests, but you may need to remove your top for an ultrasound.