SG HOSPITAL & DIABETES CENTRE

A general physician, also known as a general practitioner (GP) or family medicine physician, is a primary care doctor who provides a wide range of medical services to patients of all ages. They focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute and chronic illnesses, as well as preventive care.

Some of the responsibilities of a general physician include:

• Performing physical exams and taking medical histories
• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
• Prescribing medications and providing treatment plans
• Providing counseling on lifestyle changes and preventive care
• Managing chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes
• Performing minor surgical procedures such as suturing and removal of cysts or skin tags
• Coordinating and referring patients to specialists when necessary
• Providing care for multiple comorbidities, which means they have more than one chronic illness.

General physicians often have a broad range of medical knowledge, and they are trained to handle a wide variety of health issues that may affect their patients. They are also equipped to provide care for the whole family, from infants to the elderly, and they can provide continuity of care over time. They play an important role in the primary care system, and many patients establish long-term relationships with their GP.

A general physician, also known as a general practitioner (GP) or family medicine physician, is trained to diagnose, treat, and manage various health issues across multiple body systems. They provide primary care to patients of all ages, which means they can treat a wide variety of medical conditions. Some of the conditions they commonly treat include:

• Acute illnesses such as colds, flu, and infections
• Chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease
• Respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis
• Gastrointestinal conditions such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome
• Musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis and back pain
• Skin conditions such as eczema and acne
• Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety
• Women's health issues such as contraception and menopause
• Pediatric health issues such as vaccinations and minor illnesses in children
• Geriatric care and management of multiple comorbidities

General physicians are also trained in preventive medicine, and they often provide screenings and counseling for conditions such as cancer and heart disease.

• They also perform minor surgical procedures such as suturing and removal of cysts or skin tags. They work closely with other specialists to provide comprehensive care for their patients.
• It's worth noting that general physicians are not limited to treating only minor illnesses and injuries, they can also manage and treat complex and serious medical conditions.
• However, if the condition is outside their scope of practice or expertise, they will refer the patient to specialists who are better equipped to treat the condition

The terms "general doctor" and "physician" are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to slightly different roles or specialties within the medical field.

• A "general doctor" typically refers to a primary care physician who provides general medical care for a wide range of illnesses and conditions. This can include family medicine physicians, general practitioners (GPs), and internists.
• They are often the first point of contact for patients with new or chronic health issues, and they can provide preventive care, diagnose and treat illnesses, and coordinate care with specialists when needed.
• On the other hand, "physician" is a broad term that encompasses all licensed medical doctors, including specialists such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists.
• They are medical doctors who have completed a medical degree and a period of training in a specific medical field. They are trained to diagnose, treat and manage a wide range of medical conditions.

In summary, a general doctor is a type of physician who provides general medical care for a wide range of illnesses and conditions, while a physician is a broad term that encompasses all licensed medical doctors, including specialists.