People visit a general practitioner (GP) to discuss health concerns or seek medical advice. The visit, known as a general consultation, allows the GP to assess your current health status and address any symptoms or issues you may be experiencing.

If it’s your first time preparing for a consultation with a GP, you might wonder what to expect from your visit and how they can help with your health concerns. We have answers.

What is a general practitioner?

A general practitioner is a doctor who provides preventative care and treats acute and chronic illnesses. Various general practitioners, including family doctors and primary care providers like paediatricians, internists, and geriatricians, provide first-line health care.  

During an emergency, a GP can provide life-saving treatment until emergency care can be given. These doctors often work as part of a larger team that comprises pharmacists, nurses, psychiatrists, and other specialist doctors.

What are some responsibilities of a GP?

A GP can perform routine medical screening or suggest care for chronic conditions like depression, sexually transmitted diseases, heart disease risk factors, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cancer, or diabetes risk factors.

General practitioners can also treat acute short-term conditions such as migraines, asthma, fever, minor broken bones, dehydration, colds and flu, minor wounds, skin infections or rashes and muscle sprains and strains.

Your doctor will use information gathered during your consultation to prescribe medication, order diagnostic tests, or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation or treatment.

What should you expect during a consultation with your GP?

During your consultation, your doctor will ask about your medical history, previous treatments, medical conditions, medications you currently take, and any symptoms you are experiencing. You should expect a physical examination and learn about your diagnosis and recommended treatment course. They will also tell you how to manage chronic illness and maintain good health.

When do you need a general consultation?

Typical reasons to get a general consultation include:

• Routine check-ups.
• New health symptoms.
• Changes in your health.
• Physical medical examination (work or school).
• Monitor and manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, which require regular monitoring and management by a healthcare provider.
• Preventive care (screenings and check-ups) to help identify health problems early.

Remember, your GP’s crucial goal is to keep you healthy. A general medical consultation is an excellent opportunity to receive preventive care and learn how to maintain good health.

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Sources: Drlogy, WebMD, and Memon Medical Institute Hospital.