Traditionally, care which was under the direction of a physician. For a time, “medical care” came to refer only to those portions of the care provided directly or personally by a physician, with the care given by other professionals (such as nursing care, rehabilitation, and the like) excluded, or at least semi-independent, from the definition of medical care. So the term “patient care” was introduced. For example, “evaluation of medical care” was replaced in most usage by “evaluation of patient care”; the latter term not only focusing on the patient, but also ensuring that all components of the care—not just what the physician does— are included. The usage has changed, however, with “managed care” in many situations replacing “patient care”.
The use of medical skill to benefit as patient.