Physicians are licensed to diagnose and treat patients' diseases, physiological and psychiatric disorders, injuries and other health-related problems. In general, physicians: 1) take medical histories and examine patients 2) order, perform and interpret medical tests to diagnose health-related problems 3) determine appropriate treatments which may include lifestyle change, surgery, medication, or more complex treatment or rehabilitation programs 4) counsel patients on preventative health care and lifestyle including diet and activity 5) participate in health care teams and co-ordinate their work with other physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other health care providers 6) teach and train students and conduct research. More... Occupation description courtesy of the Alberta Learning Information Service www.alis.alberta.ca