Family Medicine

Family Medicine is a specialty that provides comprehensive and continuous healthcare for individuals and families of all ages, from children to older adults. Family medicine doctors look after common illnesses, long-term conditions and preventive care in the context of the patient’s family and community. What they do: Family medicine specialists act as the first point of contact for most health problems, diagnose and treat common diseases, manage chronic conditions over time, provide vaccinations and screening, offer lifestyle and mental health counselling, and coordinate care with other specialists when needed. Common conditions treated: fever, cough, cold and common infections, diabetes and high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart risk factors, asthma and other long-term breathing problems, stomach and digestion problems, joint and back pain, minor injuries and skin problems, stress, anxiety and mild depression When to visit: for general check-ups and health advice, when you have common symptoms like fever, cough, pain or stomach upset, for long-term follow-up of diabetes, hypertension or thyroid problems, when you need vaccinations or health screening, when you are worried about stress, sleep problems or low mood, when you are not sure which specialist is appropriate for your problem Treatment methods: detailed history and physical examination, basic tests such as blood, urine and simple imaging, prescribing and adjusting medicines for common and chronic conditions, giving vaccines and preventive care, providing diet, exercise and lifestyle counselling, supporting mental health and simple counselling, coordinating referrals to hospitals and specialists and arranging regular follow-up plans