Family Practitioners, (General Practitioners or Family Doctors), provide treatment for a variety of medical illnesses, as well as preventative care and health education for patients. Family Practitioners treat all family members, regardless of sex or age. They perform a wide variety of tasks, and are expected to use a wide degree of creativity and latitude. The practitioner administers medications, performs check ups, and provides preventative care and counsel. Some family practitioners perform minor surgery and obstetrics (pregnancy and childbirth).

Family Practitioner Training Requirements

A family practitioner is a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), who has completed four years of medical school as well as residency requirements. Once medical school requirements are completed, Family Practitioners may begin residency for three years in family medicine. Training focuses on treating individuals throughout the lifespan. In training, a Family Practitioner learns to treat any problem, and places emphasis on common problems. Coursework includes medicine, dentistry, counseling, and administration to prepare Family Practitioners with knowledge in all areas of medical treatment.

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Family Practitioner Certification Programs

All family practitioners are board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Family Practitioners must take written board examination upon completion of residency to attain board certification. Examination tests a doctor�s knowledge of a broad range of disorders, treatments, injuries, and illnesses.

Family Practitioner Prerequisites

Family Practitioners are required to attend four years of medical school before being eligible for residency. Medical schools require undergraduate training, and successful completion of the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Medical schools also take into consideration grade point average, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Various schools and colleges offer flexible course schedules that range from day, night and weekend classes and training sessions.

Family Practitioner Continuing Education

Family Practitioners are required to take continuing education courses to maintain board certification. Family Practitioners may also take continued education courses to receive Certificates of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in areas such as sports medicine, adolescent medicine, or geriatric medicine. Search HealthCare-TrainingCenter.com to find continued education courses for Family Practitioner.