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 Internists hold at least three years of postgraduate training in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect adults. Their specialty is in solving puzzling diagnostic problems as well as the care of patients with complex concerns such as diabetes, asthma, COPD and other infections or diseases affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, joints and digestive, respiratory and vascular systems. They are able to treat a broad range of ailments at once (from common problems to severe chronic illnesses) and often act as primary care physicians for older adults. Internists also serve as consultants to other physicians in the diagnosis of complex problems. Description of physical symptoms, along with medical history and physical examination, are the internist's main tools in the diagnostic process. Specific tests such as blood tests, X-rays and biopsies help narrow down a diagnosis.
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