When a patient consults a medical specialist, the reason for the encounter is usually stated in the referral. In general practice, the patient is self-referred and the starting point of the consultation is to find out why the patient attends and what his or her agenda includes.

All adults should have a primary care doctor. These are usually internal medicine (internists) or family medicine doctors. Getting an annual checkup can help your doctor spot health issues early on.

Consultation is the act of seeking assistance from another physician(s) or health care professional(s) for diagnostic studies, therapeutic interventions, or other services that may benefit the patient.