You do need a real doctor if you have a fever over 104°F, can’t stop bleeding, or your eyes look like two angry tomatoes. Also, if you’ve been coughing for three weeks and also have chest pain—yes, go see the pro. But for a mild headache, a pimple that looks like a small volcano, or a papercut that makes you gasp dramatically? Save the appointment slot for someone who actually needs it.
Here’s a surprising stat: the average GP spends 20% of their time on conditions that could be treated by a pharmacist or self-care. That’s one out of every five appointments spent on “I have a wart” or “I didn’t sleep well.” Be a hero—don’t be that 20%.
