What Is a General Physician?
General physicians are medical doctors who provide healthcare services for a wide range of general health conditions. They meet with patients to assess medical conditions and conduct physical examinations, record medical histories, and administer diagnostic tests. They analyze results and other information in order to diagnose patients and determine appropriate treatment, which can include the prescribing of medications or referral to other medical specialists for further consultation.
These types of physicians also may provide patients with information about certain health conditions and educate them on things like diet, hygiene, nutrition, and preventative healthcare. To make sure patients receive the most appropriate care, general physicians often consult and collaborate with other physicians, nurses, and specialists.
They work in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and private offices, where they spend most of their time in appointments. Most physicians work during regular office hours, but it is not uncommon for them to work during evenings or weekends or be on call in case of emergencies.
How to Become a General Physician
Those interested in becoming general physicians must complete an undergraduate education, usually in the area of premed, before entering medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine degree.
While enrolled in a medical program, students learn about biomedical and health sciences and how they are applied in a clinical environment through examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Common courses include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathology, medical ethics, biochemistry, and medical law. Through participating in clinical rotations, students learn about specific areas of medicine, patient assessment and diagnosis, and the treatment of illness and injury.
After completing medical school, one begins a residency which provides on-the-job training and can last anywhere from three to eight years. A national licensing examination must be passed before a physician can practice independently. It is not uncommon for beginning general physicians to start out in partner or group practices before moving on to more advanced positions.
General Physician Career Outlook & Salary
As acute and chronic illnesses and injuries are anything but a rarity in today’s society, there is an obvious need for general physicians who are able to treat a growing population. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of physicians and surgeons is projected to increase by 22% within the next decade. This is due to an expanding health care industry, growing elderly population, and advancements in technologies, therapies, and diagnostic tests.
There will specifically be a demand for physicians who are willing to work in rural and low-income areas and those who specialize in areas that affect the elderly like cardiology and radiology. General physicians who are self-motivated, have excellent bedside manner, and possess the ability to work under pressure will have the best job opportunities.
The Bureau reported that physicians and surgeons earn among the highest salaries of any occupation, with those practicing in primary care earning a median salary of $186,044 in 2008, and those practicing in medical specialties earning $339,738.
