Most families have a specific physician or nurse practitioner they’ve perhaps seen for generations.

But those who practice family medicine are becoming more scarce, leading to care shortages in some areas.

This is Family Medicine Week in Michigan, as designated by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Michigan Academy of Family Physicians and Michigan Association of Osteopathic Family Physicians.

“Family medicine physicians play an important role in keeping Michigan residents healthy,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. “Their dedication to disease prevention, treating all ages and addressing the broader health of the community are why they are such a valued part of the health care system.”

The Michigan Academy of Family Physicians and Michigan Association of Osteopathic Family Physicians collectively represent more than 4,500 family physicians, family medicine residents and medical students statewide. Together they will host Michigan Family Medicine Advocacy Day in Lansing on Tuesday to provide an opportunity for family medicine advocates to discuss with their elected officials legislative and policy issues that affect the delivery of and access to health care in Michigan.

“Family physicians practice family medicine — the medical specialty that provides comprehensive health care for individuals and families,” said Dr. Keerthy Krishnamani, MAFP president. “We diagnose and treat illness and provide preventive care, manage chronic conditions and advocate for patients as they navigate the health care system. Because our care is based on ongoing relationships with our patients, we really get to know them and their past health histories, which helps us make the best medical decisions for each individual.”

For more information about MAFP, go to mafp.com. To learn more about the Michigan Association of Osteopathic Family Physicians, go to maofp.org.