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A medical consultation, commonly referred to as a 'checkup', begins with the history. Here, questions about current symptoms, as well as wide-ranging general questions which may seem to be not immediately centred on health, may be asked. The examination which follows focuses on one or more parts of the body.
Disadvantaged or homeless people tend to present with multiple problems, making the consultation more complicated. The lungs, pulse, blood pressure and abdomen are the areas most commonly examined. Investigations may be needed to complete the diagnosis. These include X-rays, ultrasound or CT (a computerised X-ray) scans to visualise organs, and blood tests to provide very specific information about the function of certain organs.
Treatment refers to the provision of therapies for the healing of an illness. Treatment varies, and may be in the form of medication, such as antibiotics; advice regarding health and well-being; referral to another doctor, specialist, physiotherapist, dentist or nurse, and so on. Follow-up arrangements should always be arranged and clarified at the end of the consultation. This can be difficult but is especially important for the homeless.