Primary care

Medical services from a general practitioner, family physician, or internist.

Basic or general health care which emphasizes the point when the patient first seeks assistance from the medical care system and the care of the simpler and more common illnesses. The primary care provider usually also assumes ongoing responsibility for the patient in both health maintenance and therapy of illness. It is comprehensive in the sense that it takes responsibility for the overall coordination oi the care of the patient’s health problems, be they biological, behavioral or social. The appropriate use of consultants and community resources is an important part of effective primary care. Such care is generally provided by physicians, but is increasingly provided by other personnel such as family nurse practitioners.

In the UK, health services offered directly to individuals by GPs, dentists, opticians and other health professionals who may also refer a patient on to specialists for further treatment.

The care by a primary care physician (PCP). Care requiring more specialized knowledge or skill is obtained by referral from the primary care physician to a specialist (secondary care physician (SCP)) for consultation or continued care. The term is also used to mean the care given at the initial contact of the patient with the health care system or with a health care provider. It usually takes place in an office or other outpatient setting.

Health care rendered by the physician or other health professional who has first contact with a patient seeking medical treatment. The term is often applied to care provided by internists, pediatricians, or family practice physicians.

Integrated, accessible health care, provided where the patient first seeks medical assistance, by clinicians who are responsible for most of a patient’s personal health care, including health maintenance, therapy during illnesses, and consultation with specialists.

Integrated, accessible health care, provided where the patient first seeks medical assistance, by clinicians who are responsible for most of a patient’s personal health care, including health maintenance, therapy during illnesses, and consultation with specialists.

Primary medical care provided by a healthcare professional, such as a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or another qualified provider, who serves as the initial point of contact for patients within the healthcare system, prior to any necessary referral to a specialist elsewhere within the system.