How much does a family doctor make?

In the United States, family doctors’ pay can differ with experience, location, and whether they work in a clinic, hospital, or their own practice. Hours and extra training or board certification can matter too; some employers reward seeing more patients or meeting care goals.

Diagnose, treat, and provide preventive care to individuals and families across the lifespan. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment. Excludes “General Internal Medicine Physicians” (29-1216) and “Pediatricians, General” (29-1221).

What's a typical day like?

At a clinic, a family doctor may check a child’s fever, give a shot, and help an adult manage diabetes or high blood pressure. They order tests or refer patients to specialists when needed, then plan follow-up care.

U.S. students complete college, four years of medical school, and a three-year family medicine residency. They pass USMLE or COMLEX exams and apply for a state medical license; board certification requires a separate exam.

Graduate degree or long training (preparation level 5 of 5)

Good for people who like helping and teaching and figuring things out.

Family doctors can do more than checkups: they may stitch cuts, give joint injections, and use ultrasound to look inside the body.