A general doctor, also known as a general practitioner (GP) or family physician, is a medical doctor who provides comprehensive health care to patients of all ages. They are often the first point of contact for patients with medical concerns and are trained to treat a wide range of illnesses, from common colds and infections to chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.
Responsibilities:
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses: They manage acute and chronic medical conditions.
- Preventive care: This includes vaccinations, health screenings, and lifestyle counseling to prevent diseases.
- Health education: They provide advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing long-term conditions.
- Referrals: If specialized treatment is needed, they refer patients to specialists like cardiologists, dermatologists, etc.
Common services provided by GPs:
- Physical exams
- Routine screenings (e.g., cholesterol, blood pressure)
- Minor procedures (e.g., stitching wounds, removing moles)
- Managing chronic diseases (e.g., asthma, diabetes)
- Prescribing medication
They play a crucial role in promoting health and well-being across the population, often forming long-term relationships with their patients.
