General Practitioner (GP)
If you are not sure what kind of doctor you should see for your particular health concern, it is best to start with your local General Practitioner (GP). Your GP is a medical doctor who is trained to treat a wide variety of health problems and can refer you to a specialist if necessary. GPs often provide comprehensive care for their patients and can provide advice on lifestyle changes, nutrition and other health-related issues.
Specialist
If you have a specific health concern, it may be best to see a specialist. Specialists are medical doctors who have completed several years of additional training in a specific field of medicine. Common medical specialties include cardiology (heart disease), neurology (brain and nervous system disorders), obstetrics (pregnancy and childbirth), and oncology (cancer). Depending on your individual health needs, your GP may be able to refer you to the most appropriate specialist.
Alternative Medicine Practitioners
If you are interested in exploring alternative medicine treatments for your health concerns, you may want to consult an alternative medicine practitioner. Alternative medicine practitioners may include naturopathic doctors, acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, and herbalists. Before seeking treatment from an alternative medicine practitioner, it is important to research their credentials and make sure that they are properly trained and certified.