Examine patients and take their histories, order laboratory tests, x-rays, and other diagnostic procedures consult with medical practitioners to evaluate patients' physical and mental health prescribe and administer medications and treatments, inoculate and vaccinate patients to prevent and treat diseases participate in health care policy and planning advise patients on health care report births, deaths, contagious and other diseases to government authorities coordinate or manage primary patient care. provide acute care management provide counseling and support to patients and their families on a wide range of health and lifestyle issues.