Table 1.

The Definition and Key Features of Primary Care

Institute of Medicine Definition

“Primary care is the provision of integrated, accessible health care services by clinicians who are accountable for addressing a large majority of personal health care needs, developing a sustained partnership with patients, and practicing in the context of family and community.”

4 Key features of primary care6,7 It is person rather than disease focused. This focus entails sustained relationships between patients and providers in primary care practices over time, often referred to as continuity. It provides a point of first contact for whatever people might consider a health or health care problem. In properly organized health care systems, primary care ensures access to needed services. It is comprehensive. By definition, it can encompass any problem. Many problems in primary care are ambiguous and defy precise diagnosis. Nonetheless, primary care meets a great majority of patient needs without referral. It coordinates care. Primary care adopts mechanisms that facilitate the transfer of information about health needs and health care over time. Highly personalized solutions to patients’ problems can be implemented when sustained relationships permit deeper knowledge and understanding of individuals’ habits, preferences, and goals.