Family Medicine Department: Conditions, Tests and When to Go
Family medicine (general practice) is the first point of contact for most health problems. Family doctors treat common illnesses, manage long-term conditions, give preventive care and refer to specialists when needed.
What Does Family Medicine Treat?
- Coughs, colds and fevers
- High blood pressure and diabetes follow-up
- Minor injuries and skin problems
- Health screening and vaccinations
- Mental health support
- Medicine reviews
Common Tests in Family Medicine
- Blood pressure, BMI and pulse
- Basic blood and urine tests
- ECG
- Screening tests by age
When Should You See a Family Medicine Specialist?
- Any new symptom that worries you
- Long-term condition reviews
- Health checks after age 40
- Medicine side effects
Who Works in Family Medicine?
Primary care teams include family doctors, nurses, pharmacists and health visitors.
Patient Tip
Keep one regular family doctor who knows your history.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
- Write down your symptoms, when they started and what makes them better or worse.
- Bring a list of all medicines and supplements, with doses.
- Carry previous reports, scans and discharge summaries.
- Note your questions in advance and, if possible, bring a family member.
Questions to Ask Your Family Medicine Specialist
- What is the most likely cause of my symptoms, and what else could it be?
- Which tests do I need, and what will the results change?
- What are the benefits and risks of each treatment option, including doing nothing?
- Which warning signs mean I should return urgently?
Getting Referred
In Pakistan and many other countries, the usual route to a Family Medicine specialist is through a family physician or general practitioner, who can start tests and write a referral. Large teaching hospitals and specialist centres also run outpatient clinics. In an emergency, go straight to the nearest emergency department.
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This Family Medicine department guide is educational and based on public information from WHO, CDC, NIH and NHS. It does not replace advice from a qualified clinician. Explore all specialties in our medical departments directory.