Also called: GP, family doctor
Find a general physician
A general physician (GP or family doctor) is usually the first doctor to see for a new health problem. They diagnose and treat common illnesses, look after long-term conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and refer you to a specialist when you need one. In India, general physicians hold an MBBS degree, and many also have an MD in General or Internal Medicine.
General physicians on Doctserve
Every doctor listed here has been verified by our team. Open a profile to see chambers, timings and fees.
Doctors are joining. Check back soon.
No general physicians are listed on Doctserve yet. Verified doctors appear here as they join. Browse all doctors.
What a general physician treats
- Fever, cough, cold and flu, with tests to find the cause when needed
- Infections such as throat, chest, stomach and urinary infections
- Diabetes, high blood pressure and thyroid problems, with regular follow-up
- Acidity, stomach upsets, diarrhoea and vomiting
- Body aches, weakness, tiredness and unexplained weight loss
- Routine health check-ups and advice on vaccinations
Good reasons to book a visit
- A fever that lasts more than two or three days
- A cough that lasts more than two weeks (your doctor may advise a test for TB)
- Burning or frequent urination
- Feeling very thirsty, passing urine often, or losing weight without trying
- High blood pressure readings at home, or headaches with high readings
- Tiredness or breathlessness that is new for you
Get emergency help instead if you notice
- Chest pain or pressure, or sudden difficulty breathing
- Sudden weakness of the face, arm or leg, or slurred speech
- Confusion, fainting or a fit (seizure)
- High fever with a stiff neck, or a rash that does not fade when pressed
- Signs of severe dehydration: very little urine, extreme drowsiness
What to bring to your visit
- All the medicines you take (the strips or a list with doses)
- Previous prescriptions, discharge summaries and test reports
- Your blood pressure or sugar readings if you check them at home
- For a fever: how many days it has lasted, the highest temperature, and the medicines you took
How booking works on Doctserve
Booking is free for patients; you pay the consultation fee at the chamber. Each doctor’s profile shows whether they also offer online consultations, which happen over a WhatsApp call.
- 1
Choose a doctor
Open a verified doctor’s profile to see their chambers, days, timings and fee.
- 2
Book a slot
Sign in, pick a chamber, date and time, and get a serial number. The doctor confirms the booking.
- 3
Follow the live queue
On the day, see who is being seen and roughly how long you will wait, and get an alert when the doctor arrives and when it is your turn.
- 4
Keep the prescription
Your prescription and reports stay in your health record, and your doctor can send the prescription to a pharmacy.
Frequently asked questions
Should I see a general physician or go straight to a specialist?
For most new problems, start with a general physician: they can treat many conditions and will tell you if you need a specialist. If you already know the kind of specialist you need, such as a gynecologist in pregnancy or a dentist for a toothache, you can book them directly. In India you do not need a referral to see a specialist in private practice.
Can a general physician look after my diabetes and blood pressure?
Yes. General physicians manage diabetes, high blood pressure and thyroid problems for many people, with regular check-ups and tests. They may involve a diabetologist, cardiologist or another specialist if the condition is hard to control or complications appear.
What tests might a general physician order for a fever?
It depends on your symptoms and the examination. Common tests include a complete blood count, tests for malaria, dengue or typhoid, and a urine test. Your doctor decides which, if any, you need.
Is a general physician the same as an MBBS doctor?
Every general physician has an MBBS degree. Many also have a postgraduate degree, such as an MD in General Medicine or Internal Medicine, or a diploma in family medicine. The doctor’s profile shows their qualifications.
Related specialists
This page is general health information, not medical advice. For advice about your own health, consult a doctor.