A physician who specializes in internal medicine (an internist) evaluates and treats adult medical problems. An internist combines the art of physical examination with a thorough patient history and the appropriate diagnostic tests to make a diagnosis and create a treatment plan for each patient.

Because of their expertise in heart and lung disease, cancer, diabetes, and stomach and intestinal problems, internists often serve as consultants to other physicians in managing critical or complex cases. Internists also play a dominant role in managing patients in the intensive care unit and Lakeview Medical Center.