Description
Generalist medical practitioners diagnose mental and physical injuries, disorders and diseases, prescribe and give treatment, recommend preventative action, and conduct medical education and research activities. They work in hospitals or in general practice and, where necessary, refer the patient to a specialist.
Tasks
Examines patient, arranges for any necessary x-rays or other tests and interprets results
diagnoses condition and prescribes and/or administers appropriate treatment
administers medical tests and inoculations against communicable diseases
supervises patient’s progress and advises on diet, exercise and other preventative action
refers patient to specialist where necessary and liaises with specialist
prepares and delivers lectures, undertakes research, and conducts and participates in clinical trials
supervises the implementation of care and treatment plans by other healthcare providers
Educational Requirements
Entrants require a university degree from a medical school recognised by the General Medical Council followed by two years of pre-registration training as a house officer. Some medical schools operate graduate entry schemes. Once the pre-registration period as house officer is completed, further postgraduate training in a general practice training programme is completed