What happens after a GP consultation?

Your GP combines your symptoms, examination findings, medical history and preferences to decide the next step. Some problems can be managed with self-care and review; others need testing to clarify the cause. Depending on the concern, the plan may involve a blood test, abdominal ultrasound, chest X-ray or electrocardiogram. A referral may be arranged when specialist assessment is useful, but not every consultation leads to a test or referral.

Before leaving, confirm what to do today, which results you are waiting for, who will contact you, and when to return. Follow prescription instructions and check before using a new over-the-counter medicine if you take regular treatment. Write down changes in symptoms and bring them to review. If a test is arranged, ask about preparation and how results will be communicated. Learn more about a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/), [Blood Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/blood-test/), [Abdominal Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/abdominal-ultrasound/), [Chest X-Ray](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/chest-x-ray/) or [Electrocardiogram](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/ecg/).

Use the safety advice from your GP and seek earlier review if symptoms worsen, treatment causes a concerning reaction, or an expected result does not arrive. Call emergency services for severe chest pain, major breathing difficulty, fainting, sudden facial drooping, new one-sided weakness or sudden confusion.

Ask what the working diagnosis is, what improvement should look like, when to follow up, what result would change the plan, and which symptoms mean you should seek urgent help.