What is a medical practitioner?

A medical practitioner is often referred to as a doctor.

A doctor can:

• diagnose and treat physical and mental illness, disorders and illness
• recommend preventative action
• refer you to:
  • specialists
  • other healthcare workers
  • social, welfare and support workers.

In Australia, doctors complete at least 4 years at a university medical school accredited by the Australian Medical Council.

They then complete a 12-month internship to gain general registration.

After general registration, most doctors spend several years training in a medical speciality such as:

• general practice
• obstetrics and gynaecology
• psychiatry
• radiology
• surgery.