GP

A GP is a doctor who works outside the hospital. Most other doctors and specialists work in hospitals. A GP works in a (group) practice in a town or city.

A GP is usually the first point of contact when someone becomes ill. GPs monitor their patients' medical histories and have broad general medical knowledge. This means they can help in many cases or refer patients to a medical specialist.

Advantages of a GP over a medical specialist

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

Making an appointment with a GP

To make an appointment, call the practice where the GP works. The doctor's assistant makes the appointment. They will often ask about the complaint to get a better idea of its severity. You do not have to tell the assistant. The GP assesses the complaint and, where possible, treats it immediately with advice, medication or a minor procedure. If this is not possible, the GP refers you to a specialist.

GPs in the evening or at weekends

For an emergency in the evening or at the weekend, you can contact the after-hours GP service. This is a location where a GP works outside normal hours and serves a larger region. GPs from the region take turns working there. A doctor's assistant answers the phone and assesses the complaint. If advice is sufficient, they provide it. All advice is checked by the GP.

Registering with a new GP

You can register with any GP who is accepting new patients. You are always allowed to change GPs. It is important to feel comfortable with your own GP.

A full-time GP may treat 2,095 patients (2020 figures). Once this number is reached, you cannot register with that GP. The GP must also work in the region where their patients live, so they can provide home visits when needed.