healthcare providers

There are many types of doctors and health professionals working in a growing number of health care facilities around the globe. They have different levels of training, certification, and registration required to practice in their region. Others are not. Knowing that your health professionals are trained and qualified in their field is equally important in determining the type of health professional for your personal health care needs.

Health care is not limited to the treatment of illness or injury. It is about preventing disease, treating chronic conditions, and the effects of aging. These wellness areas require the expertise of doctors and nurses and other health care professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists, and social workers. The mix of healthcare providers who care for your health needs forms your health care team, each with their purpose.

Your Doctor or GP (General Practitioners)

Some people have developed a relationship with their GP over time, which can help the doctor learn to understand the patient’s particular needs and medical history. They can take care of people with general health problems, such as illnesses or injuries that cannot be treated with over-the-counter medications. They can also help with vaccinations and details of mental health problems.

Your family doctor usually writes a cover letter, called a referral. This letter explains your health problem to the specialist. Some specialize in particular areas, such as family practice or children’s health. Your GP is usually the best person to coordinate your overall healthcare, including ordering blood tests or scans and making referrals to other medical specialists.

Oral Health Professionals (Dentists)

For oral health needs, dentists are your first point of contact. They and other oral health professionals help prevent oral health issues, including tooth cavities and gum disease. Dentists may identify problems in the mouth that could indicate problems in other parts of the body, such as cardiovascular disease. Some work in private practice, public schools, dental schools, or the military. Dentists specialize in dentistry, dental hygiene, or dental surgery.

Their aim is often to improve the quality of life and help people take care of themselves through oral health.

Medical Specialists

If your health condition is more specific, you need to see a medical doctor specializing in a particular area of health. If you have a chronic or ongoing medical problem, a medical specialist might become a part of your persistent healthcare team. Several medical specialists specialize in general practice, anesthetics, surgery, dermatology, emergency medicine, gynecology, pediatrics, pathology, psychiatry, public health medicine, radiology, and rehabilitation medicine. Some medical specialists then undertake more training so they can become even more specialized within their chosen discipline.…