Does a general practice perform a GP consultation?

The GP listens to your concern, asks focused questions and reviews relevant medical history, medicines and allergies. They may examine you, check vital signs, request tests, prescribe treatment, offer prevention advice or arrange referral. One appointment may address more than one issue, but a complex concern can need a further visit so each problem receives enough attention.

When booking, explain the main reason for the appointment and mention any urgent symptoms. Write down when the problem began, what makes it better or worse, and the medicines or supplements you take. Bring previous results or discharge information if relevant. At the end, check what to do next, how to use any treatment and when the practice expects you to follow up.

Use urgent services for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, sudden weakness, new confusion, heavy bleeding, collapse or a rapidly worsening serious illness. A routine GP consultation is appropriate for concerns that are stable but need assessment, such as persistent pain, medication questions, recurring symptoms or preventive care. If you are unsure how quickly you need help, contact the practice and describe the concrete symptoms.

Ask what the leading possibilities are, whether you need an examination or test, what improvement should look like and which warning signs require earlier review. Confirm who will receive results and how you will be contacted if the plan changes.