These days, there are many different types of medical service providers that you can visit when you are feeling unwell or dealing with a medical issue. Medical professionals are broadly categorised into primary care providers, specialists, emergency care providers, and others. Every one of these medical care providers has a vital role in healthcare, and in your lifetime, you are very likely to need care from various types of medical staff.
One of the medical professionals you are most likely to see is a GP. Let’s take a look at what GPs do and when to go and see these experts.
What is a GP?
GP (General Practitioners) are medical doctors who provide primary healthcare services to patients of all ages. These types of medical professionals are often the first ones you go and visit when you experience a medical issue. They are trained to manage or identify a wide range of medical conditions and offer a wide selection of medical services.
What Does a GP Do?
A GP has an incredibly diverse role. They don’t specialise in one specific ailment or treatment. Instead, they focus on all of the ailments their general patients are most likely to suffer from. Here is a quick look at the role a local GP in Sutherland Shire plays.
Diagnosis
You can go and see a GP when you don’t know what is wrong. Your GP is trained to diagnose the most common ailments. These usually include common issues like colds, flu, infections, headaches, minor injuries, or pain.
Treatment
GPs are perfectly capable of treating all of the most common ailments. They can prescribe medication, administer injections, and treat minor injuries. Your GP can even assist with a long-term treatment plan or preventative treatments that will keep you from getting unwell again.
Order Tests and Interpret Results
GPs might refer you to alternative medical facilities if they cannot accurately diagnose your condition. They might order blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, or other treatments. Once the results for these tests come in, your GP can interpret the results and tell you what is going on. From here on, the GP might continue with the treatment plan or recommend you to a specialist who might help with a more advanced issue.
Referrals to Specialists
When GPs are not able to personally treat a condition or if you want advanced medical care, they can refer you to a more advanced care provider. These can be experts in cardiology, dermatology, psychology and more. Seeing your GP is the best way to find out which medical professionals to go and see for ongoing care.
When to See a GP?
Your GP is the professional you should go and see whenever you notice something wrong. You can go and see a GP whenever the following issues arise.
Feeling Unwell – If you or a family member is feeling unwell and doesn’t know why.
Routine Checkups – GPs can assist with health screenings for conditions like cholesterol, blood pressure, or general health.
Prescriptions – Chronic patients can book a session whenever they need a new prescription or medication review.
Persistent Symptoms – For ongoing pain, fatigue, or obesity, you can also see your GP.
Mental Health – When you experience mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or sleep problems.
Vaccinations – GPs can help with many vaccinations for cold, flu, and other problems.
Unexpected Skin Changes – You can also visit if you notice unusual skin symptoms or lumps.
When to Head Straight to the ED?
There are occasions when it is best to skip the GP and head straight to the Emergency Department (ED) or Emergency Room (ER). This is usually the best option during the following situations.
After Hours – If your GP is not available after hours or at weekends.
Healthcare Emergencies – If you suspect that you might be dealing with a severe healthcare issue like stroke, heart attack, allergic attack, or asthma.
Severe Injuries – If you experience a severe injury, like deep cuts or broken bones.
Find the Best GP in Sutherland Shire
Are you looking for the best Sutherland GP? At Shire Doctors and Dentists, we can help. Our medical group has a large force of medical professionals to choose from, including the best GPs in the city. When you need help with general health or feel that something is wrong, it is best to reach out and make a booking.
Contact Shire Doctors and Dentists now to find out more about our available GPs or other medical staff.
Looking for trusted dental care in the Sutherland Shire? Visit our experienced dentist Miranda, or book an appointment with our gentle Lilli Pilli dentist. We also serve families with quality care through our dentist Gymea and trusted Cronulla dentist services.