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A general physician (GP) is an MBBS doctor who provides general healthcare for people of different age groups. They assess symptoms, diagnose and manage common illnesses, provide preventive care, prescribe medicines when appropriate, and refer patients to specialists when further evaluation or specialised treatment is needed.

An MBBS doctor can be the first point of contact for many common health concerns, from infections and fever to digestive problems and long-term conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

In India, a general physician (GP) is an MBBS doctor who has completed a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree and is registered with the appropriate medical council. Their medical training covers different areas of healthcare, including medicine, surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, and other clinical specialties.

After completing their training and registration, MBBS doctors can provide general medical care, manage common health problems, and refer patients to an appropriate specialist when required.

A general physician can:

• Diagnose and treat common illnesses such as infections, fever, cough, and digestive problems.
• Manage common conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Perform physical examinations and assess symptoms.
• Order and interpret common diagnostic tests when appropriate.
• Provide vaccinations and preventive healthcare advice.
• Prescribe medicines and monitor their effects.
• Provide lifestyle and dietary advice for common health conditions.
• Identify warning signs that may require specialist or emergency care.
• Provide initial assessment for unexplained or recurring symptoms.
• Refer patients to specialists when further evaluation or treatment is needed.

You should consider consulting a general physician for any of the following symptoms or problems:

• Persistent or high-grade fever.
• Unexplained fatigue, weakness, or lethargy.
• Managing long-term conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Chronic cough, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort.
• Digestive issues such as persistent bloating, acidity, or abdominal pain.
• Sudden weight loss or gain without a clear cause.
• Routine health check-ups and age- and risk-appropriate metabolic screenings.
• General body aches or joint pain.
• Unexplained headaches,  flashes of light, or spots in the vision.
• Blood in the stool or black stool.
• Initial consultation for any vague or undiagnosed physical symptom.

• Fever – A temporary increase in body temperature often caused by viral or bacterial infections like flu, malaria, or dengue. General physicians diagnose the underlying cause and manage symptoms based on the suspected cause.
• Allergies – Immune system reactions to foreign substances such as pollen, dust, or certain foods. General physicians may recommend medicines and lifestyle measures to manage symptoms such as sneezing, rashes, or respiratory distress.
• Diabetes – A chronic metabolic disorder in which blood glucose levels are too high. Physicians provide long-term management through medication, insulin therapy, and dietary planning to reduce the risk of complications. 
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – A condition in which the long-term force of blood against artery walls is high enough to cause health problems. General physicians monitor and treat hypertension to reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease and stroke. 
• Loose Motions (Diarrhoea) – Frequent, watery bowel movements often caused by contaminated food, water, or viral infections. Treatment focuses on rehydration and identifying the underlying cause to stop the spread.
• Respiratory Infections – A range of illnesses affecting the nose, throat, and lungs, including the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia. General physicians assess the cause, manage symptoms, and identify patients who may need further treatment or referral. 
• Headaches – Ranging from tension headaches to migraines, these can signal underlying issues such as stress or hypertension. General physicians help identify possible causes or warning signs and provide appropriate treatment or referral.
• Anaemia – A condition in which the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness. General physicians diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include iron supplementation when iron deficiency is confirmed.

• Viral Fever and Hydration – For viral fevers and diarrhoea, hydration is your priority. Use WHO-recommended ORS (oral rehydration salts) when there is significant fluid or electrolyte loss, particularly with diarrhoea or vomiting.
• Managing Diarrhoea – Continue eating light, nutritious foods as tolerated and drink plenty of fluids. A highly restrictive diet is usually unnecessary, but fatty foods, alcohol, or foods that worsen symptoms may be best avoided temporarily. 
• Cough and cold care – Most coughs and colds are viral and do not require antibiotics. Saline nasal drops or sprays may help relieve nasal congestion. Avoid steam inhalation with very hot water because of the risk of burns.
• Soothing Throat Pain – Gargling with warm salt water may help soothe throat discomfort. 
• Chest Pain Warning – Never ignore chest pain by assuming it is just "gastric acidity." If chest pain is accompanied by sweating, shortness of breath, fainting, severe weakness, or pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw, seek emergency medical care immediately.
• Fever Monitoring – Keep a digital thermometer at home. Check your temperature when you feel feverish or as advised by your healthcare professional. Keeping a record of temperature and other symptoms can help your physician assess your illness. 
• Antibiotic Safety – Never self-prescribe antibiotics for a cold or sore throat. Antibiotics do not work against viral infections, and unnecessary use can contribute to antimicrobial resistance and side effects.