Program Goals & Objectives
Family medicine is the medical specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive health care for the individual and family. It is the specialty in breadth that integrates the biological, clinical and behavioral sciences. The scope of family medicine encompasses all ages, both sexes, each organ system and every disease entity.
The specialty of family medicine is the result of the evolved and enhanced expression of general medical practice and is uniquely defined within the family context.
The family physician is a physician who is educated and trained in family medicine - a broadly encompassing medical specialty.
Family physicians possess unique attitudes, skills and knowledge which qualify them to provide continuing and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance and preventive services to each member of the family regardless of sex, age or type of problem, be it biological, behavioral or social. These specialists, because of their background and interactions with the family, are best qualified to serve as each patient's advocate in all health-related matters, including the appropriate use of consultants, health services and community resources.
The American Academy of Family Physicians maintains full responsibility for determining the philosophy, content and scope of family medicine, and for establishing the definition of "family medicine" and "family physician." It is recognized that accreditation of family medicine residency programs is the responsibility of the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Certification of family physicians is the responsibility of the American Board of Family Practice (ABFP). Both accreditation of training and certification of individuals should be based on the philosophy, content and scope of family medicine as defined by the AAFP.
Please refer to the following links for information regarding requirements and special FP requirements:
• American Board of Family Practice Requirements
Goals and objectives for Community Medicine:
Conduct and disseminate community-oriented health care research designed to address specific health care needs and problems.
Develop strong partnerships and expand existing ones among the community, educators, and providers.
Educate students in the delivery of primary care within the community.
Support community programs that empower community members to become active participants in their own health.