Family Medicine vs. Primary Care vs. Urgent Care vs. Internal Medicine — What’s the Difference?

What is Primary Care? Why do I need a Primary Care physician?

Primary Care Providers (PCP) are doctors and nurse practitioners who are your long-term partners for maximizing your health. They provide preventive care; diagnose, treat and manage a wide range of conditions, and build lasting relationships with their patients built on trust. They get to know you. One of their key functions is to refer you to a specialist – such as a cardiologist for heart problems – when the care you need exceeds the level of care they can provide. There are two main types of primary care: Family Medicine and Internal Medicine.

Common conditions treated by Primary Care physicians:

• Wellness exams and annual physicals
• Health screenings
• Vaccinations and preventive care
• Chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
• Acute conditions like colds, flu, and infections
• Minor injuries and skin conditions
• Digestive issues and allergies
• Mental health concerns like anxiety and depression
• Women’s and men’s health services

What is Family Medicine?

Family Medicine providers deliver primary care for patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. A Family Medicine provider can provide care for the whole family through every stage of life. They are the ideal provider if you want one provider who can provide continuous care from childhood into adulthood. 

St. Mary’s Family Medicine practices are: 

• St. Mary’s Primary Care, located in Athens, GA
• Georgia Family Medicine, located in Watkinsville, GA
• St. Mary’s Family Medicine, located in Watkinsville, GA
• Good Samaritan Primary Care, located in Greensboro, GA
• Sacred Heart Primary Care, located in Lavonia, GA

What does an Internal Medicine doctor treat?

Internal Medicine focuses on adult healthcare, including managing complex and chronic conditions. Internists specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide array of adult health concerns, making them an excellent choice for ongoing care if you’re managing multiple health issues. 

St. Mary’s Internal Medicine practices are: 

• Athens Internal Medicine Associates, located in Athens, GA
• Community Internal Medicine of Athens, located in Athens, GA
• St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates, located in Athens, GA

When should I visit an Urgent Care clinic?

Your PCP is the right professional to see for most of your healthcare needs. St. Mary’s Primary Care practices offer next-day and even same-day appointments in many cases. But when you need care outside of normal office hours, Urgent Care may be a more appropriate choice than an emergency room. Urgent Care is designed for health issues that need care quickly but are not life-threatening. While not a replacement for primary care, they’re a convenient option when you can’t wait for an appointment and don’t need the high-level services of an emergency department.

Common conditions treated at urgent care clinics:

• Cold and flu symptoms
• Sprains, strains, and minor fractures
• Cuts, burns, and minor wounds
• Ear infections and strep throat
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

When should I visit the Emergency Room?

For severe or life-threatening conditions, the Emergency Room (ER) is the best place to receive immediate, high-level care. ERs are equipped to handle critical medical emergencies and have specialized staff available 24/7.

When to visit the emergency room:

• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Severe abdominal pain or sudden, intense headaches
• Uncontrolled bleeding or large, deep wounds
• Sudden numbness, weakness, or difficulty speaking (possible stroke symptoms)
• Major injuries, such as broken bones or head trauma
• Severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis
• Suicidal thoughts or severe mental health crises

Which Care is Right for You?

It is best to hink of Primary Care as your long-term health partner, whether you prefer a single provider for your whole family or are seeking care only for adults. Think of Urgent Care for unexpected and immediate health needs when your doctor’s office is closed. And think of Emergency Care for any serious health issue that could be fatal or lead to disability, such as a stroke, heart attack or severe bleeding. In a health emergency, call 911 immediately.

At St. Mary’s Health Care System, we’re proud to offer compassionate, expert care through our primary care offices across Northeast Georgia. Whether you’re due for a wellness visit or need help managing a health condition, our dedicated teams are here to support you every step of the way.