Types of Primary Care Doctors Explained
From pediatrics to geriatrics, find the right primary care physician
From pediatrics to geriatrics, find the right primary care physician
Choosing a primary care doctor is one of the most important decisions you can make for your health — whether you’re entering a new life stage, managing a chronic condition or looking for the right provider for your whole family.
Primary care doctors are often your first point of contact for everyday health issues, preventive screenings and ongoing management of chronic issues. They also support mental health care, either directly or by connecting you with specialists when needed.
Because primary care doctors have different areas of expertise, it’s helpful to understand your options based on your age, health needs and personal preferences. Finding the right fit can make a meaningful difference in your overall care and long-term health.
But choosing a primary care doctor isn’t just about credentials. It’s also about finding someone you trust and feel comfortable with over time.
“A good primary care doctor is not just a medical expert. They are also your advocate, guide and partner in health,” says Harkaranveer (Harry) Ratanpal, DO, a family medicine physician at Scripps Clinic Rancho Bernardo.
Many primary care teams also include nurse practitioners and physician assistants who can provide routine care, prescribe medications and help improve access to timely appointments.
When to revisit your primary care options
Life changes — and so do your health needs. It’s important to reassess your primary care needs when you enter a new life stage, if you develop a chronic condition, move or change insurance plans.
If you’re starting a family, you may choose a pediatrician to care for your child from infancy through adolescence. Adults may choose either a family or internal medicine doctor. Some prefer the convenience of one provider for all ages, while others need specialized care — such as an OB-GYN for reproductive health or geriatricians for older adults.
These life or health changes are often the best time to find a provider who fits your evolving needs.
Types of primary care doctors
Here’s a closer look at the types of primary care doctors and those patients they are best suited to serve:
Pediatricians
Pediatricians specialize in caring for babies, children and teens. From the first newborn visit to the last checkup before adulthood, they help families navigate immunizations, childhood illnesses and key developmental milestones. Pediatric care typically continues through age 17.
If you are a new parent, you’ll see your pediatrician often during your baby’s first year for well-baby checkups.
Family medicine doctors
Family medicine physicians care for people of all ages, from newborns to older adults. They are trained to treat a wide range of health needs, including preventive care, chronic conditions and everyday illnesses.
They offer a convenient option for families who want a single provider for all members.
Internal medicine doctors (internists)
Internal medicine physicians specialize in adult care. They treat patients 18 and older, focusing on disease prevention, diagnosis and management of a wide range of health conditions, especially chronic conditions.
Some internists provide general primary care, while others go on to specialize in other areas, such as cardiology, sleep medicine or sports medicine.
Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN)
OB-GYNs provide women’s reproductive and preventive care.
Some women rely on their OB-GYN for primary care during their reproductive years. These providers offer screenings, fertility care, pregnancy management and menopause support.
Geriatricians
Geriatricians provide care for seniors, generally 60 years and older. They are trained in managing aging-related issues, from memory loss and mobility to medication management and chronic disease.
How to choose the best fit for you or your family
Once you’ve figured out the type of provider that fits your needs, take a moment to think about a few other factors that can help you find the best match:
- Do they treat your specific age group or health concerns?
- Do they have experience with chronic conditions or special needs?
- Do you prefer a one-stop doctor for the whole family or separate providers?
- Are they board-certified in their specialty?
- Are they part of your insurance network?
- Do they speak your language or understand your cultural background?
- Do they offer virtual visits or online tools like MyScripps for easy communication?
At Scripps, patients can use their MyScripps patient portal to view provider details, message their care team or check in before your visit.
Make the most of your first visit
Your first visit with a new doctor helps set the tone for your care.
To prepare:
- Bring a list of current medications
- Share your personal and family medical history
- Note any ongoing concerns or recent changes in health
- Prepare questions to ask
- Bring your insurance card and photo ID
Try to cover as much as you can during your first visit.
“I want my new patient to be invested in their health,” says Dr. Ratanpal. “We may not have time to cover everything in one visit. But we can prioritize together and make follow-up appointments to make sure we cover everything.”
To make sure you understand your new doctor’s advice, repeat what they said. Take notes on key points. Bring a family member for support or ask permission to record important advice on your phone.
Building a strong relationship
One sure way to build a strong relationship with your primary care doctor is to schedule an annual physical exam. These visits help your doctor get to know you better and track your health over time.
“If I could tell my future patients one thing, it would be that I need your help. I want to take good care of you, so please schedule an annual check-up. This is how we get to know you better. It helps us understand your history, needs and concerns,” says Dr. Ratanpal.