Internal medicine

Internal medicine is a broad medical specialty that treats diseases of the internal organs – the heart, blood vessels, lungs, digestive tract, endocrine system, and kidneys. An internist coordinates patient care and refers patients to subspecialists when needed.

Subspecialties of internal medicine include endocrinology, gastroenterology, rheumatology, pulmonary medicine, and hematology. Treatment of diabetes and high blood pressure are among the most common tasks of an internist.

An internal medicine specialist is often the first point of contact when unclear symptoms may involve several different organs or when a comprehensive treatment perspective is needed.