Family doctor

A family doctor is a doctor who works outside the hospital. Most other physicians and doctors work in hospitals. A family doctor works in a practice or group practice in a town or city.

A family doctor is usually the first point of contact when someone becomes ill. A family doctor keeps track of their patients' medical histories. They have extensive general medical knowledge and can therefore help in many cases or provide a targeted referral to a medical specialist.

Advantages of a family doctor over a medical specialist

A major advantage is that a family doctor knows their patients' medical histories. They also know about the patient's living environment, including the family situation. A medical specialist does not know the patient's entire story.

Making an appointment with a family doctor

To make an appointment, call the practice where the family doctor works. The medical receptionist makes the appointment. They often ask about the complaint to get a better idea of its severity. You are not required to tell the receptionist. The family doctor assesses the complaint and, when possible, treats it immediately with advice, medication or a minor procedure. If this is not possible, the family doctor refers the patient to a specialist.

Family doctor in the evening or on weekends

In an emergency during the evening or weekend, you can contact the after-hours medical clinic. This is a location where a family doctor works outside normal working hours, serving a larger region. All family doctors in the region take turns working there. A medical receptionist answers the phone and assesses the complaint. If advice is sufficient, it is provided. All advice is reviewed by the family doctor.

Registering with a new family doctor

You can register with any family doctor who is accepting new patients. You are also always allowed to change family doctors. It is important to feel comfortable with your own family doctor.

A family doctor who works full time may treat no more than 2,095 patients (2020 figures). Once this number is reached, you cannot register with that doctor. The family doctor must also work in the region where their patients live so that home care can be provided when necessary.