What Doctor Do I Need?

If you’re wondering what doctor you need, you’re in the right place. The world is a confusing place right now, but something to be grateful for is that no matter the illness, there’s a doctor for it. But how do you know what specialty to choose?

There are so many doctors in different institutions in the UK. This can be quite confusing for a layman to understand and pick from, but that’s why we’re here! We’re here to tell you basic differences between private general practitioners and specialist doctors in private clinics. There are so many specialities such as ENT doctors and ENT clinics and there are clinics within the UK that offer private ultrasound or other scans too.

So first things first, what do you need to see a general practitioner for?

GP’s treat illnesses in the early stages of development, and are trained in treating people with multiple health issues. They are most often the first doctors you would contact for any mental or physical issue. They usually inform their patients about their conditions, reassure them, and initiate medications. Most importantly, they do not specialise in any part of the body and they treat non-life-threatening illnesses.

Many people see a private GP through their workplace or if they have private insurance. GP’s in a private set-up typically do the same thing as their colleagues that work in communities, homes, hospitals, etc.

Why should you go to a private clinic?

You always have a choice when choosing where you want to get consulted and treated. Hospitals are the best places for emergency treatment or if you have to stay overnight and you might have an NHS GP already. But if there’s a private clinic close by with experienced doctors, then why not give it a try?

How would you benefit from private ultrasound scans?

Ultrasound scans are for scanning a part of your body. It could be to determine pregnancy, diagnose an illness, or to guide a surgeon. But when considering a private ultrasound scan, make sure you do your research. The place you’re considering needs to meet industry standards. Make sure not to get scammed; you’ll be putting yourself at risk.

When should you see an ENT doctor/surgeon?

ENT doctor’s typically diagnose, evaluate, and treat diseases of the head and neck. They specialise in treating ear, nose, and throat conditions. These doctors work in hospitals and privately owned ENT clinics. You can choose if you want to be treated in an ENT clinic or at the hospital by the ENT doctor/otolaryngologist, depending on your medical/health insurance.

When should you do STD testing?

STDs are sexually transmitted diseases. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, etc. are some common ones. They are tested through urine samples, swabs, or blood tests. Anyone experiencing any pain, sores, or itching and abnormal discharge are advised to for an STD testing. It’s important to take care of your sexual health too. Doctors in clinics and hospitals that test STDs are non-judgmental. And your results are 100% confidential.

If you’re planning to go to an STD clinic, you would need to make an appointment, although, a lot of clinics are okay with walk-ins. Remember, there’s nothing wrong with going to a sexual health clinic or a hospital for this. These tests are for both men and women. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about, and if you are, reassure yourself that it’s okay.

Well, there you go. This covers some basic yet important information to keep in mind about different doctors and the facilities available in the UK.