General Practitioners and Family Physicians Demand – Job Opportunities in Canada

General Practitioners (GPs) and Family Physicians are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention and are responsible for diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions. They manage chronic conditions, take preventative measures, and, when needed, coordinate with other specialists as part of an all-encompassing approach to healthcare. They are typically employed in hospitals, clinics, and private practice including group or team practices.

Requirements

• Complete a bachelor’s degree typically in a science-related field, although it is not strictly required. Pre-medical courses are essential for admission to medical school.
• After completing an undergraduate degree, candidates must attend a medical school in Canada or an internationally recognized institution.
• Complete a 2-3 year residency program in family medicine.
• Upon completion of their residency, family physicians must pass the certification exam.
• Obtain a license from the medical regulatory authority of the province or territory in which they plan to work.

Job Titles

• Family Physician
• General Practitioner (GP)
• General Practice Resident
• Medical Doctor

Main Duties

Some of the important duties of General Practitioners and Family Physicians are:

• Assess and diagnose a broad spectrum of medical conditions, from common colds to more complex health issues.
• Provide treatment, prescribe medications, and manage ongoing care.
• Provide emergency care, acute care management, and continuous care to patients.
• Conduct regular health check-ups, immunizations, and screenings such as cancer and diabetes, and advise patients on healthy lifestyle choices like diet, and exercise.
• Refer patients to specialists when more specialized care is needed.
• Maintain accurate and detailed medical records for each patient, ensuring that all relevant information is recorded and accessible for ongoing care.
• Provide pre-natal and post-natal care.
• Offer guidance on health maintenance, treatment options, and wellness.