Both types of doctors have the training to manage problems ranging from typical to complex. See the workplace, talk with the medical professionals, inquire about their methods to care. Then choose what is best for you as an individual, or for you and your family In 2006, when the country had 100,431 family physicians, a workforce report by the American Academy of Family Physicians showed the USA would require 139,531 family doctor by 2020 to satisfy the demand for primary treatment.