General practitioner in Riga

General practitioner in Riga | Family doctor

A family doctor or general practitioner is a primary healthcare specialist who provides both preventive and therapeutic services. During a consultation, the family doctor evaluates the patient’s health and current complaints. Primary diagnostics are performed, and treatment is prescribed if necessary. The family doctor also analyzes laboratory tests, X-ray, and CT scan results to clarify the diagnosis and determine the subsequent treatment plan.

At “Republikas laukuma klīnikā”, family doctor provide a wide range of healthcare services, caring for both acute and chronic conditions as well as preventive care. We work to ensure that you receive professional, prompt, and easily accessible medical assistance.

General practitioner’s services:

• Pre-consultation patient survey: The purpose of the visit is indicated, such as acute illness, chronic disease management, issuance or extension of sick leave, preparation of work certificates, medical assessment for drivers (CSDD), prescription of medications, and other individual concerns.
• Evaluation of complaints from various organ systems: respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, hormonal, musculoskeletal, nervous, and mental health systems.
• Review of previous tests and examinations: including blood and urine tests, X-rays, CT scans, ultrasound (USG), MRI, electrocardiograms (ECG), echocardiograms (ECHO), and other diagnostics.
• Consultations on relevant health issues for the patient.
• Necessary measurements: body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, ECG, spirometry, and others.
• Laboratory testing and scheduling of additional consultations.
• Follow-up appointments: Based on the doctor’s recommendation, patients are scheduled for control visits and necessary tests, which can be performed on-site (USG, PG, Holter monitoring, etc.), or for specialized consultations with our english speaking doctors: gastroenterologist, urologist, traumatologist, gynecologist, and others.
• Written report on performed examinations: Information on results is provided, and if necessary, a recommended plan of action, including referral to a specialist.
• Analysis of test results: Provided during an in-person consultation (usually within 2–3 days) or remotely—for an additional fee.

How to prepare for a GP visit

Gather Your Personal Medical Information

Past Medical History

Before heading to your appointment, create a list of:

• Any medical conditions you currently have or have had in the past
• Chronic issues (e.g., hypertension, asthma, migraines)
• Previous injuries or illnesses

This helps your healthcare provider understand your health background quickly and accurately.

Medication List

Make a written list of:

• All your medications
• Dosages
• How often you take them

This includes prescription drugs, over‑the‑counter medications, supplements, and herbal products. A written list is especially useful if you take multiple medications.

Past Surgical History

Note down any surgeries you’ve had and, if possible, the year they were performed. This can include anything from minor procedures to major operations.

Collect Your Family Medical History

Doctors often ask about health conditions in your parents, siblings, and grandparents, especially:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Stroke
• Certain cancers

Family history helps identify potential hereditary risks and guides preventive care.

Prepare a List of Concerns and Symptoms

Symptoms

Write down:

• What symptoms you’ve been experiencing
• When they started
• How often they occur
• How severe they are

A clear timeline helps your doctor make a more accurate assessment.

Questions for Your Doctor

Don’t rely on memory—bring a written list of questions. These may include:

• “What could be causing my symptoms?”
• “Are further tests needed?”
• “What are the treatment options?”

Being proactive helps you get the answers you need and ensures nothing is forgotten.

Additional Tips Before Your Appointment

Fasting for Blood Work

If you expect blood tests, it’s often necessary to avoid eating beforehand to ensure accurate results. If you’re unsure whether fasting is required, it’s safer to come prepared.

Arrive Early

Aim to arrive 15–20 minutes before your appointment. This allows time for:

• Registration
• Updating personal information
• Completing forms

Being early helps reduce stress and keeps the appointment running on schedule.

What to Expect During the Appointment

Vitals and Basic Checks

Most appointments begin with:

• Height and weight measurement
• Blood pressure
• Pulse
• Possibly temperature

These baseline measurements help track your overall health.

Medical Interview

Your doctor will likely ask about lifestyle factors such as:

• Smoking or vaping
• Alcohol use
• Sexual history
• Diet and exercise

Answer honestly—this information directly affects your care and treatment options.

Communication Tips for the Best Experience

Be Honest and Thorough

Provide accurate information, even if something feels embarrassing or insignificant. Your doctor’s role is to help—not judge.

Advocate for Yourself

If something concerns you, speak up. If a symptom isn’t taken seriously, you can request that both your concern and the doctor’s response be documented in your medical file. This ensures clarity and continuity in future care.

After the Appointment

Tests and Referrals

Your doctor may order:

• Blood tests
• Imaging (e.g., X‑ray, ultrasound)
• Referral to a specialist

Follow through on these recommendations for the best care.

Reviewing Results

Most test results are not available immediately. Expect:

• A call from the clinic
• An online portal notification
• Or a follow‑up appointment

Typically, results may be ready within a week.

Preventive check-up with family doctor

At “Republikas laukuma klīnikā”, we offer preventive health screening programs under the supervision of a family doctor.

Check-Up BASIC

The basic health screening includes:

• Family doctor consultation: evaluation of patient complaints, analysis of medical history, review of previous tests and examinations
• Measurement of arterial blood pressure in both arms
• Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) determination
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Spirometry (lung function test)
• Blood tests with options to choose the most suitable profile:
• BASIC (included in the test price)
• PLUS (includes carbohydrate metabolism markers, andrological markers, mineral and electrolyte balance)
• ULTRA (extended profile)
• Written health evaluation including measurement comments and individualized recommendations for further examinations or specialist consultations
• Detailed summary of laboratory test results with conclusions and, if necessary, recommendations for consultation with the appropriate specialist

Check-Up PLUS

Includes everything in the BASIC health screening, plus:

• Ultrasound (USG) of the abdominal cavity or thyroid gland
• Consultation with another specialist, depending on the family doctor’s recommendations and the patient’s needs

Check-Up ULTRA

A comprehensive health screening that includes:

• Components of BASIC and PLUS screenings
• Additional specialist consultations based on patient needs and family doctor recommendations
• Polysomnography (e.g., sleep apnea screening)

Additional option:

A separate in-person consultation after 2–3 days

Frequently Asked Questions