Choosing a healthcare career isn’t just a job decision. It’s a commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. If you’re drawn to a role that blends clinical insight with human connection, internal medicine might be for you. Internal medicine is one of the broadest and most versatile fields in healthcare. There’s tremendous variety and flexibility in internal medicine. From a solo practice to emergency medicine, internal medicine branches into many subspecialties like cardiology, infectious disease and more. Most internal medicine practitioners focus on immediate health concerns and long-term disease management. With its vast landscape of possibilities for growth and specialization, internal medicine invites you to explore your interests.

What is internal medicine?

Internal medicine diagnoses and manages a broad range of adult illnesses. Internal medicine physicians, also known as internists, are sometimes referred to as “doctor’s doctor” because other specialties often consult with them on complex cases. Instead of specializing in a single organ system, internists are trained to care for the entire patient, including chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and others. This detailed approach appeals to clinicians who enjoy problem-solving, developing extended patient relationships and intellectual stimulation. Internal medicine is the perfect fit for clinicians who find satisfaction in delving deeply into patient backgrounds and building trust with patients to find proper treatment.

Flexibility across care settings

Internal medicine opens doors to opportunities in emergency medicine, family medicine and even hospitalist positions for nurse practitioners and physician assistants looking for locum or travel opportunities. One of the most significant advantages of a career in internal medicine is the flexibility to practice in different settings:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Academic medical centers
• Telemedicine roles
• Skilled nursing facilities

Most internists are attracted to hospitalist jobs that allow single-task inpatient care with block scheduling. Others may prefer an outpatient practice that offers continuity of care and set hours. With the increasing number of remote physician assistant positions and the rise of telehealth, internists also have more opportunities to work from home or in hybrid roles.

Top five paying internal medicine specialties

General internists earn an average annual salary of $203,000, with the top-paying states being Washington, New York, and Massachusetts. Many internists decide to pursue a subspeciality, including a narrow focus on a specific patient population or disease. Once a physician finishes an internal medicine residency, they can pursue fellowships in fields like cardiology, which offers an average annual salary of $423,000, or pulmonology, which can pay an average of $341,000 annually. These specialties are popular, and working in them can result in higher salary potential, more focused patient interactions and leadership opportunities. Cardiology, oncology and gastroenterology jobs are among the most in-demand positions in healthcare staffing every year.

Demands of the job market

Healthcare systems throughout the U.S. are facing a growing need for internists. As the population ages and chronic disease becomes more prevalent, the demand for internists, both generalists and specialists, continues to increase. A recent survey showed that 68% of internists believe the job market is perfect for this particular role within healthcare. Numerous physician and hospitalist job listings are available in both urban and rural locations, and demand for these positions remains strong. Healthcare agencies actively recruit internists and advanced practice providers for full-time, part-time and travel positions, which makes this field a solid and strategic career choice.

Meaningful patient relationships

Compared to specialties in acute procedures, internists typically see patients for years, treating multiple conditions, coordinating care between other specialties and becoming trusted guides for patients throughout their medical journey. This longevity builds a profound sense of purpose and trust in medical professionals and the healthcare system as a whole. Internal medicine is rewarding for those who appreciate long-term effects and relationship-oriented care. Additionally, internal medicine specialists focus on the whole person, not just isolated symptoms. They need to develop listening skills and tailor care to each patient’s life circumstances. Internal medicine physicians often help patients navigate the healthcare system. This advocacy builds appreciation with patients and develops the physician-patient bond.

A career with lifelong learning

Internal medicine is a dynamic specialty that requires ongoing professional development. From staying current with upcoming treatment recommendations to incorporating new technology into patient care, internists are constantly adapting. This makes it an excellent fit for intellectually curious professionals who love to learn and adapt in the face of change, continually expanding their knowledge base. Over time, internists often transition into teaching, leading quality improvement efforts, or engaging in clinical research, which adds greater variety and even more value to their careers. With broad, in-demand skills, internists enjoy the flexibility to work in various settings, from major hospitals to rural clinics. Rural clinics are experiencing a significant need for internal medicine practitioners. A study in 2024 showed that twenty percent of Americans live in rural areas, but only nine percent of physicians practice medicine there.

Strong pathways for advancement

An internal medicine career does not have to be linear. Many internists transition into leadership, administration or hospital or health system medical director roles. Some direct their careers into public health or assume roles involving policy formation, population health or healthcare innovation. With a solid foundation in adult medicine, internal medicine clinicians are well-positioned to shape care models, educate new providers, and enhance outcomes at both the individual and system levels. Internal medicine practitioners embrace curiosity, initiative and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Your journey starts with StaffDNA

Whether you are a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant looking to expand into new specialties, internal medicine is a stable yet incredibly fulfilling career. With high demand, varied employment opportunities and avenues for promotion, it is a wise move for anyone drawn to adult patient care and a lifetime of learning. Join more than 2 million healthcare professionals and download  StaffDNA today. You’ll find jobs in internal medicine, subspecialties, nursing, advanced practice, and more. StaffDNA shows all job details and pay packages up front, so you know exactly the job you’re applying for. Join StaffDNA today!