Family Medicine Physician

What They Do:

Family Medicine Physicians, also known as Primary Care Providers, diagnose and treat short and long-term illnesses for individuals of all ages. They also provide routine health screenings and counseling on lifestyle changes in an effort to prevent illnesses before they develop. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.

Also Known As:

Board Certified Family Physician, Family Medicine Physician, Family Physician, Family Practice Medical Doctor (FP MD), Family Practice Physician (FP Physician), Family Practitioner, Medical Doctor (MD), Medical Staff Physician, Physician, Primary Care Physician

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree in a health science related major: 4 years
• Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
• Medical School: 4 years including classroom and clinical work
• Pass the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE)
• Complete a Residency Program: 2-4 years (depending on speciality)

Career Info Sources Include:

• Career One Stop
• Bureau of Labor Statistics