GP (General Practitioner)
Also known as: Family doctor, Primary care physician, Médecin généraliste (France), Hausarzt (Germany), Médico de cabecera (Spain)
A GP is a doctor who treats general health problems and refers you to specialists when needed.
Last updated: 2 April 2026
Real-world example
You develop a persistent cough in Amsterdam. Rather than going to A&E, you book a same-day appointment at a huisarts (GP) practice near your hotel. The doctor examines you, prescribes antibiotics, and charges EUR 50. The whole visit takes 25 minutes. If you'd gone to A&E, you'd have waited 3 hours for the same outcome.
Why travellers need to know
A GP is almost always the right first point of contact for non-emergency health problems abroad. They're cheaper than emergency departments, faster than hospitals, and can refer you to a specialist if needed. The challenge for travellers is finding one that accepts walk-ins or short-notice appointments, since most GP systems are designed around registered local patients.
Country-specific notes
NHS GPs require registration; visitors use walk-in centres
NHS GP practices only see registered patients. Visitors should use NHS walk-in centres or urgent treatment centres for non-emergency care. Private GP appointments in London cost GBP 60-120 and can usually be booked same-day.
Frequently asked questions
Related guides
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