Following medical school, family physicians train for three more years in residency to gain skills in general internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, and psychiatry. This training program was established by the American Academy of Family Physicians in 1969.

Family doctors are generalists who treat patients of all ages and both sexes for a wide variety of common conditions. We provide preventive health care, such as well-baby visits, immunizations, Pap smears and screening for cholesterol and cancer. Family physicians do minor office surgical procedures, care for patients with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, and in some areas, provide prenatal care and deliver babies.

Unlike many other specialists, family doctors must pass a test every six years to stay certified by their specialty board, the American Board of Family Medicine. They also are required to take continuing medical education courses every year. A board-certified family doctor is a well-trained generalist who stays up to date with new medical developments.