Internal medicine

Some internists have specific training in certain fields of medicine not covered by other specialties or that often require a comprehensive approach to the patient, such as the control of cardiovascular risk factors, infectious diseases (especially HIV), congestive heart failure, venous thromboembolic disease, systemic autoimmune diseases, palliative care, and treatment of complex chronic patients, a field that is growing exponentially due to the progressive ageing of the population.

Due to their extensive knowledge of a variety of diseases, one of the roles of internists is to carry out preventive medical check-ups and, when necessary, coordinate treatment with other specialists and at different levels of care (primary care, social and healthcare settings, care centres, etc.). They are the right experts to try to identify rare or complex-to-diagnose diseases.

Provides hospital support for the suitable treatment of infectious diseases in six key areas:

• Prevention and treatment of infectious complications in hospitalised, surgical and immunocompromised patients.
• Programme for recommendations and optimisation of antimicrobial use.
• HIV infection specialised consultation.
• Specialised consultation on sexually transmitted diseases.
• External consultation on infectious diseases.
• Tropical and travel medicine consultation.

Designed to identify and suitably treat medical problems affecting psychiatric patients and vice versa (dual pathology), as well as to address psychosomatic problems.

Given the multiplicity of symptoms and the involvement of various organs and systems, assessment and treatment by an internist provides a comprehensive, efficient approach.

Consultations under the cardiovascular risk factor control programme focus on preventing heart and blood vessel diseases. We assess blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels, weight, eating habits, and physical activity. We provide information, personalised treatment and regular monitoring to reduce risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, thereby improving long-term cardiovascular health.

Consultations under the Programme for the care of patients with complex chronic multiple pathologies are aimed at people with multiple chronic conditions. We assess their overall condition, adjust treatments, coordinate with other specialists, and promote self-care. We seek to improve their quality of life, prevent complications and reduce hospitalisations through comprehensive, continuous and personalised monitoring.