Family Physician and General Practitioner (GP)

GPs are medical doctors who specialize in family practice. They are generalists. This  means they know about many aspects and branches of the medical profession. They are usually the first medical doctor that a family sees if they have health problems. The GP usually treats minor health problems, such as colds and respiratory infections. They  also make referrals to more specialized professionals, such as Ear Nose and Throat Specialists (ENTs) when needed. GPs also engage in preventive care and offer health education to the families they treat.

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Many families have a family physician that they always go to when in need of medical help. In British Columbia, families that do not have a family doctor can go to a drop-in clinic for their medical needs.

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