Primary Care

A primary care physician plays a vital role in helping you take care of your health. Your physician:

• Provides preventive care and helps you make healthy lifestyle choices
• Gets to know you and understand your health history
• Treats you when you are sick or injured
• Helps manage long-term illnesses
• Provides tests and screenings
• Makes referrals to medical specialists if needed

In addition, you have a connection to the many resources available, including:

• Leading–edge technology such as robotic surgery, 3D diagnostic imaging and proton cancer therapy
• Specialized treatment and diagnostics for cardiovascular care, cancer care, digestive health, neurosciences, orthopaedics, organ transplantation, women's health and more
• Top specialists, clinical trials and access to advanced resources through our affiliation with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital and Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital*

When it comes to your health, prevention is just as important as treatment. A relationship with a primary care physician can help you live the healthiest life possible.

Types of primary care physicians

Choosing a primary care physician is an important decision. Thankfully, Northwestern Medicine gives you many options. Before you make your selection, it helps to understand the types of primary care physicians available to you.

Family Medicine

Family medicine doctors treat infants to seniors. Sometimes called family practice physicians or just family physicians, they are trained in all areas of medicine, including pediatrics and women’s health. Your family physicians able to provide treatment for most of your primary care medical needs throughout your lifetime.

Internal Medicine

Internal medicine physician treat adults of all ages, from age 18 to seniors. Sometimes called internists, they are trained in all areas of medicine and can provide treatment for most of your medical needs, including women’s health. Northwestern Medicine internists will coordinate your overall medical needs, outline health and wellness guidelines and recommend specialists, if needed.

Obstetrics/Gynecology

Obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) physicians receive specialty training in caring for a woman’s complete healthcare needs. Their primary focus is on gynecological care and support during pregnancy and childbirth.

Pediatrics

Our board-certified pediatricians and nurse practitioners offer personalized care throughout your child's growing years, whether that includes routine care or the attention of a specialist. We stress health education and work to address your concerns as a parent to provide exceptional pediatric health and wellness care.

Prevent the spread of germs this flu season. Taking simple precautions such as washing your hands and practicing good respiratory etiquette can help you avoid getting the flu.

Getting a flu vaccine prevents many cases of influenza. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, or would like to get your flu vaccine, visit your primary care doctor or a Northwestern Medicine Convenient or Immediate Care Center.