A medical practice is a healthcare service where patients consult qualified clinicians about illness, injury, ongoing health conditions and general wellbeing. In a general practice, appointments are commonly provided by GPs, practice nurses and other primary care staff. Consultations may take place in person, by telephone or by video, depending on the service and the reason for contact. Typical services include assessing symptoms, giving medical advice, diagnosing and treating common conditions, issuing prescriptions where appropriate, and arranging referrals to hospitals or other specialists. Practices may also offer health checks, vaccinations, screening and support for long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes or high blood pressure. Some provide maternity, contraception or minor injury services. A practice may operate within the NHS, privately or through a combination of arrangements; the staff, services and appointment options vary between providers.