Family Medicine

What Is Family Medicine?

This primary care specialty serves patients of all ages, from newborns to older adults. Family medicine doctors (sometimes called family practice doctors) complete four years of medical school and a three-year residency. The team also includes highly qualified physician assistants and nurse practitioners specializing in family medicine.

Family Medicine: Adult and Pediatric Primary Care in Central Massachusetts and Beyond

UMass Memorial Health family medicine providers care for every member of your family. We have hundreds of providers who see all age groups in locations throughout Central Massachusetts and beyond. In addition to routine checkups, we treat many common illnesses and injuries. You can also count on us for preventive services that optimize your family’s well-being.

Conditions We Treat

Family doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions in patients of any age or gender identity. 

Conditions we frequently see include: 

• Acne and other skin issues
• Anxiety and depression  
• Common cold
• COVID-19
• Ear infections
• Flu (influenza)
• Chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure and diabetes
• Sprains and strains  
• Trauma, such as minor cuts and burns

Family Medicine Services 

Family medicine doctors and other providers deliver a broad range of services, including: 

• Physical exams for adults and children
• School sports physicals and medical clearance forms
• Sick care, including quickly diagnosing stomach bugs and strep throat
• Preventive care, such as health screenings and immunizations
• Care for chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and high cholesterol
• Mental health assessments and treatment
• Women’s health services and obstetrical care
• Wellness services, including fall prevention, nutrition counseling and stress reduction

Specialized Family Medicine Services

Some family physicians have advanced training in specific health issues. Their expertise helps you receive more of the services you need from providers you know and trust.

Our team includes providers whose expertise combines family medicine and:

• Addiction medicine: We help people with substance use disorder get on the path to recovery.
• Adolescent medicine: These specialists are attentive to the medical, psychological and social concerns of young adults.
• Obstetrics and Gynecology: Receive expert care from the same provider before, during and after pregnancy.
• Geriatric medicine: These family medicine providers have in-depth knowledge of the aging process and medical needs of older adults.
• Sports medicine: These family doctors prevent, diagnose and treat injuries in athletes and active people.