How to Choose a Doctor
There are a number of terms to define before offering tips on how to choose a doctor:
Family Medicine: Family medicine is the primary care medical specialty which provides continuing, comprehensive health care for the individual and family. Family medicine encompasses all ages, both sexes, each organ system, and every disease entity. Family medicine doctors in the United States may hold either an M.D. or a D.O. degree. Physicians who specialize in family medicine (also known as family physicians) must complete a three-year family medicine residency in addition to their medical degree, and are eligible for the board certification now required by most hospitals and health plans. Primary Care: Primary care refers to the activity of a health care provider acting as a first point of consultation for all patients. It is an important form of health access for patients. Primary care involves the widest scope of health care including all ages of patients, patients of all socioeconomic and geographic origins, patients seeking to maintain optimal health, and patients with multiple chronic diseases.Primary care physician, or PCP: A physician/medical doctor, providing both the first contact for a person with an undiagnosed health concern, as well as continuing care of varied medical conditions. In many cases, a PCP enables a patient to see a specialist (for example, a cardiologist or 'heart doctor'), by making a referral.
Pediatrician: A medical doctor specializing in pediatrics -- medical care of infants, children, and adolescents -- is known as a pediatrician. The upper age limit ranges from age 14 to 18, depending on the country.
Gynecologist: A medical doctor specializes in gynecology -- a branch of medicine dealing with health of the female reproductive system (uterus, vagina and ovaries). Almost all modern gynaecologists are also obstetricians.
Obstetricians: A medical professional specializing in obstetrics -- the surgical specialty dealing with the care of women and their children during pregnancy, childbirth and the period beginning immediately after the birth of a child and extending for about six week. Midwifery is the non-medical equivalent.
General Practitioner, or GP: A medical practitioner who provides primary care and specializes in family medicine. A general practitioner treats acute and chronic illnesses and provides preventive care and health education for all ages and both sexes.
