ISCO 08 Code 221        Medical doctors

Lead Statement

Medical doctors apply the principles and procedures of modern medicine in preventing, diagnosing, caring for and treating illness, disease and injury in humans and the maintenance of physical and mental health. They may supervise the implementation of care and treatment plans by other health care providers, and conduct medical education and research activities.

Task statement

Tasks performed usually include:

• conducting examinations and questioning patients to determine the nature of disorders or illnesses;
• ordering tests,  and analysing findings; prescribing and administering treatments, medications and other remedial measures;
• performing surgery and other clinical procedures;
• monitoring  patients’  progress and response to treatment; 
• advising on diet, exercise and other habits which aid prevention or treatment of disease and disorders;
• providing pre-natal and post-natal care and during childbirth;
• referring patients to, and exchanging medical information with other health professionals;
• reporting births, deaths and notifiable diseases to government authorities;
• arranging the admission of patients to hospital;
• conducting research into human disorders and illnesses and preventive or curative methods.

Comments

ISCO 88 Code(s)

(NCvB; Maart 2010)