It is in the best interests of women, their partners and children that the overall management of their health should be under the care of a General Practitioner (GP). Women who feel they need advice on a gynaecological or pregnancy-related problem should, in the first instance, discuss it with their GP. Following an assessment by a GP if the condition requires the services of a consultant a referral will be made to the most appropriate specialist.
If you are admitted to hospital, either in an emergency or on a planned or elective basis, you will be under the care of your admitting consultant. Your consultant leads a team of health care providers but your consultant will have ultimate responsibility for your care.
You may also have dealings with other consultants, such as radiologists, pathologists and anaesthetists, who also, because of their particular expertise, will be involved in your care.
These non-admitting doctors work in the particular hospital in which you are being treated and form part of the team to provide you with the best care possible.
