A general practitioner or GP is a medical provider who specializes in family medicine. The GP provides primary care by treating illness and practicing preventive medicine and health education for every age.
Primary Care
Many people use a GP as their primary care physician. The GP is often a patient's first point of contact with a medical issue. GPs provide comprehensive care to patients instead of a specializing in a particular area of focus.
Setting
General practitioners usually work in offices or clinics. They commonly have a staff of nurses and administrators assisting them. GPs are often part of large group practices. General practitioners are physicians who can do almost everything a patient needs.
Education
Those who want to become a general practitioner must complete an undergraduate program, a four year medical program and a one to two year residency program. After completing the residency program, the GP must pass a licensing exam
Board Certification
The American Academy of General Physicians (AAGP) is the only organization representing general practitioners. It is the only path for Board Certification in this area. The AAGP trains and educates physicians in a manner outlined through the American College of General Medicine
Continual Learning
The American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) now requires participation in continual learning programs to reinforce their knowledge and expertise. The ABFM's program is called the Maintenance of Certification Program for Family Physicians (MC-FP). Practitioners must demonstrate proficiency in professionalism, self assessment, cognitive expertise and performance in practice.
Tags: Board Certification, general practitioner, General practitioners, primary care, residency program
