There are many options to choose from when it comes to healthcare. Two of these options are family medicine and primary care. Both family medicine and primary care are areas of medical practice which focus on the health of individuals or whole families.

Both family medicine and primary care physicians provide preventive care services, including wellness and ongoing care for various medical issues. Both also have the ability to diagnose and treat health conditions. There are also some differences to be aware of when deciding which types of doctors to choose. 

Family medicine and primary care

Family medicine is sometimes referred to as family practice. It is a branch of medicine that works with the health concerns and well-being of the entire family. 

Family medicine doctors, or family medicine physicians, provide medical care. This includes care for patients of all ages and all family members.

This includes older adults and children (from infants up to 21 years of age). Family practitioners can care for all patients of all ages for medical problems or check-ups. 

Primary care is an umbrella term that includes different types of providers. They provide comprehensive care services for any age group. This includes newborns, children, adolescents, adults and the elderly (geriatrics).

Primary care doctors, or primary care physicians (PCPs), include general practitioners and pediatricians. But they can also include internal medicine doctors (internists) and geriatricians. Obstetrics and gynecology physicians (OB-GYN) for women’s health are also sometimes included under primary care.

Family medicine and primary care providers can include nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Both family medicine and primary care providers may address a wide range of health needs and concerns; however, there are some important differences to know about.

Differences between family medicine and primary care

Understanding the key differences between family medicine and primary care is important. Knowing the differences, even if they seem subtle, will help you make better decisions about which type of healthcare provider you need. 

Here are a few differences between family medicine and primary care.

Differences in approach

Instead of focusing on treatments or diagnoses, family medicine takes a comprehensive approach. They focus on preventive care across all stages of life — from newborns to older adults. 

Primary care is usually the first point of contact for medical attention. Primary care physicians diagnose and treat common illnesses and manage chronic conditions. Primary care services focus on health maintenance and patient education. They also focus on disease prevention and other important aspects of wellness.

Differences in scope

Family medicine physicians are trained to provide general primary care as well as pediatrics, women’s health, urgent care, and even some mental health services.

PCPs are often generalists who are trained to diagnose and treat many conditions in both adults and children. These doctors focus on managing existing or chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and much more.

Similarities between family medicine and primary care

Primary care and family medicine are very similar. Both can ensure that patients receive comprehensive care throughout their lives. Family medicine doctors and primary care doctors both consider all aspects of health — both physical and emotional. 

Here are a few important similarities.

The similarity in care

Family medicine and primary care both focus on the health and well-being of patients. Both involve patient-centered approaches to healthcare. In addition to diagnosing and treating illnesses, they also focus on lifestyle changes. Both are considered first-contact for medical diagnosis and treatment before seeking a subspecialty.

Both provide preventive care

Both family medicine and primary care physicians offer preventive services. Preventive care is important for maintaining health and well-being. Preventive care includes regular screenings and annual checkups, which can help detect any issues early. 

Annual screenings are often used to monitor important health metrics, such as blood pressure or cholesterol levels. They can also provide a comprehensive overview of current health status.

Both family medicine and primary care doctors can also open up the door to referrals to other outpatient services or specialists.

Both provide personalized care

Both family medicine and primary care physicians seek to get to know their patients better in order to provide compassionate patient-centered care. 

Taking into consideration the emotional state and physical health needs of their patients help primary care and family medicine physicians better understand the root causes of any medical conditions. In turn, this helps them provide a more personalized treatment plan.

Family medicine or primary care?

Family medicine and primary care involve the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. They also involve preventive care and patient education. Ultimately, deciding which type of care is best for an individual depends on their needs.

The bottom line 

If you're looking for primary care options, HealthTap can help. We have affordable virtual primary care providers online who can provide ongoing care.

HealthTap primary care doctors are available to give medical advice, diagnose and treat medical conditions, order tests, prescribe medication as needed, and more. It’s quick and easy to schedule an online appointment with HealthTap. 

With a patient’s ability to text follow-up questions or inquire about refills after their appointment, HealthTap puts quality healthcare right at everyone’s fingertips. 

Get started with a HealthTap doctor today here — primary care is just one tap away.