350 Family Physicians Found in Santa Cruz, CA – Page 4

A family physician provides continuous, comprehensive healthcare for all family members regardless of age or medical condition. These primary care providers emphasize preventive medicine and manage patients within their family and community context.

Family physicians complete medical school followed by a three-year family medicine residency encompassing pediatrics, internal medicine, women's health, surgical principles, and behavioral health. Some pursue additional fellowship training in sports medicine or geriatric care.

A Family Medicine Doctor's practice encompasses:

• Provides longitudinal care for individuals across the entire lifespan
• Conducts preventive health visits, screening examinations, acute illness management, and chronic condition oversight
• Addresses respiratory infections, metabolic disorders, mental health conditions, minor trauma, and prenatal services
• Employs holistic care including pharmacotherapy, minor surgical procedures, counseling services, and care coordination
• Alternative titles: family practitioner, primary care doctor, FP, MD, DO