What is Family Medicine?
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), Family Medicine is a specialty of medicine that provides comprehensive health care for individuals and family. Family medicine integrates clinical, biological and behavioral sciences. To learn more, visit the AAFP website at www.aafp.org.
Can a family medicine physician treat patients of all ages?
Yes, a family medicine physician can treat children as well as adults.
Can one member of my family see the physician or are we all required to be patients?
A family medicine physician treats individuals of all ages. Each of your family members does not have to be a patient in order for you or some of your family members to be seen by the doctor.
What happens if I need to be referred to a specialist for additional treatment?
A family medicine physician provides primary care. Many managed care insurance plans require that their members designate a primary care physician to serve as a gatekeeper for all of their medical care needs. A family medicine physician is knowledgeable and trained to treat all organ systems and diseases. He or she will make the determination as to whether a patient requires additional treatment by a medical specialist. In such instances, the family medicine physician will refer the patient to the specialist and coordinate the patient’s treatment and care with that physician.
What constitutes a minor emergency?
Dr. Orris is board certified in emergency medicine and can effectively treat cuts and/or lacerations that require stitches, provide tetanus shots, and x-ray and set broken bones. Patients seriously injured, suffering chest pain, unable to breathe or unconscious are in need of immediate medical attention. In such instances, please call 911 and get the patient to the nearest hospital’s emergency room.
What insurance plans do you accept?