Primary care physicians are also known as general practitioners, and are usually specialists in Family Medicine or Internal Medicine. They treat many common health problems including acute (sudden onset) and chronic (long-term) illnesses. PCPs manage your health care over the long term, staying involved even when you need a specialist for diagnosis or treatment of a specific disease or health condition. Even if you need more than one specialist, your records will be sent to your PCP (at your request), so he or she can be the main coordinator of your health care. The specialists’ notes, tests and lab results will be placed in your medical file at your PCP's office in one central location. This provides continuity of care and peace of mind knowing one doctor is aware of all your health issues.