The GP is your first point of contact for your health and your child's health. You can see your GP for various matters. For example:
- all urgent medical needs. Only in case of a life-threatening emergency call 112.
- for questions or advice about your health or your child’s health. It is normal for children to be seen by a GP. In the Netherlands, paediatricians generally only see children with special needs or conditions.
- for physical complaints or symptoms. For example:
- if you have a painful knee, or for gynaecological symptoms
- if you have had a cough for more than 3 weeks
- for mental health issues or symptoms.
- such as feeling down, relationship problems or problems related to alcohol or drugs. Your GP can also help you deal with psychological problems related to moving countries, such as loneliness.
- If you are worried:
- If you think that a symptom or illness will not clear up on its own.
- If you want to know whether you are infected or have infected someone else, for examine with an STI.
- If you are worried about a mole.
- If you have thought of a way to treat yourself but aren’t sure if it is the right way.
- For first aid or for minor surgical procedures:
- such as stitching or bandaging wounds and checking to see if something is sprained or broken.
- For treatment and support in the case of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or asthma.
- For preventive medicine, such as:
- Flu vaccine (if indicated)
- The periodic cervical smear test
For some medical issues or symptoms, your GP may refer you to a medical specialist. You can’t consult a medical specialist without a referral.
Are you unsure about whether to see your GP for a certain question? Feel free to ask the assistant. She is specially trained for this and will sometimes be able to answer your question without needing to consult the GP.
In general, the GP does not provide:
- Dental care
- Physiotherapy
- Perinatal care, such as obstetric or maternity care
GPs are often part of a healthcare centre where these services may be available.