Who is a Family Doctor?
A Family Doctor — also called a General Practitioner (GP) — is a medical doctor who provides everyday healthcare for people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. They are usually your first point of contact when you are sick, and they can treat a wide range of common illnesses, manage long-term conditions, and refer you to a specialist when needed. If you are unsure which doctor to see, a Family Doctor is always a good place to start.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Family Doctor
When to See a Family Doctor
You should consider booking an consultation if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or conditions:
- Fever, chills, or body aches lasting more than two days
- Persistent cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing
- Stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, or signs of dehydration
- Headaches that keep coming back or are unusually severe
- Skin rashes, wounds, or infections that are not healing
- Feeling unusually tired, weak, or losing weight without trying
- High blood pressure, diabetes, or other long-term conditions that need regular monitoring
- Needing a routine health check-up or medical certificate
- Concerns about a child's growth, development, or vaccinations
- Feeling anxious, low in mood, or struggling to cope with daily life
Conditions & Visit Reasons
Select a specific condition to learn more or search for specialists offering directed therapy plans:
Conditions Treated
Common conditions that a Family Doctor can diagnose, manage, or treat:
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Also known as: Impotence, Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, Erectile issues, Male sexual dysfunction, Erection problems
Sexually transmitted disease (STD)
Also known as: STD, sexually transmitted disease
Headache
Also known as: cephalgia, dolor capitis, ha, head ache, head pain
Apollo
Also known as: pink eye, Apollo, Conjunctivitis
Cough
Fever
Also known as: elevated temperature, febrile illness, feverish
Tiredness
Also known as: loss of energy, malaise, tiredness
Vaginal Discharge & STI
Vomiting
Mental health
Skin acne
Also known as: skin problem
What to Expect at Your Appointment
At your first visit, the Family Doctor will ask you about your symptoms, your medical history, and any medications you are currently taking — so try to bring any previous medical records or drug prescriptions if you have them. They will carry out a physical examination, which may include checking your blood pressure, temperature, and other vital signs. Depending on what they find, they may order simple tests such as a blood test or urine test, prescribe treatment, or refer you to a specialist for further care.
Training & Education Credentials
A Family Doctor completes a medical degree (MBChB or equivalent) from a recognised university, followed by a period of supervised clinical training (housemanship) in a hospital. In Ghana, doctors may pursue further postgraduate training and certification through the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons or equivalent bodies to specialise in Family Medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to see a Family Doctor in Ghana?
The cost varies depending on whether you visit a government hospital, a clinic, or a private facility. At government hospitals, fees are generally lower and may be covered partly by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Private clinics may charge a consultation fee ranging from GHS 50 to several hundred cedis. Always ask about fees before your appointment and bring your NHIS card if you have one.
Do I need to book an appointment before seeing a Family Doctor?
At most government hospitals and polyclinics in Ghana, you can walk in and register on the day. Private clinics and some health centres may prefer or require you to book an appointment in advance. Calling ahead can save you a long wait, especially at busy facilities.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring your NHIS card, any previous medical records or test results, a list of medications you are currently taking, and a form of identification. If you are visiting for a child, bring their immunisation card or child health record book. Having this information ready helps the doctor give you the best care.
Can a Family Doctor treat my child as well as adults in my family?
Yes — Family Doctors are trained to care for patients of all ages, including babies, children, teenagers, and the elderly. They are an ideal first point of contact for the whole family. If your child needs specialised paediatric care, the Family Doctor will refer you to a paediatrician.
When should I go to the emergency room instead of seeing a Family Doctor?
Go to the emergency room immediately if you or someone else has difficulty breathing, chest pain, a seizure, loss of consciousness, severe bleeding, signs of a stroke (sudden face drooping, arm weakness, or slurred speech), or any condition that feels life-threatening. A Family Doctor handles non-emergency and routine care; for urgent or life-threatening situations, go straight to the nearest hospital emergency unit.
Book a Family Doctor
Find verified board-certified Family Doctors on DrDoGood. Compare reviews, check real-time availability, and schedule your appointment online.
All practitioners on DrDoGood are thoroughly vetted for credentials, licensing, and patient satisfaction histories.
Available Family Doctors
Schedule visits with these verified medical providers:
Dr. Joanne Mitchell-Jones
Family Doctor
Short Bio
Dr. UGOCHI Ezeanochieugochi
Family Doctor
Dedicated practitioner offering comprehensive medical consultations and personalized care plans.
Dr. Joyce Ankomah
Family Doctor
Dedicated practitioner offering comprehensive medical consultations and personalized care plans.
Dr. Dionne Mitchell
Family Doctor
Bio
Dr. Amanda Sackey
Family Doctor
I am an experienced family physician with a special interest in diabetes.
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