Family health and primary care represent the first level of the health care system. It encompasses preventative care, health maintenance, identification and management of common conditions, and coordination of consultations and referrals. Primary care is provided in outpatient care settings, but the scope of the primary care physician may extend into hospital settings.
Having a family doctor is an important advantage when it comes to maintaining
your good health. The doctor you choose will get to know you and your health
status. If a change in your health emerges, your family doctor will be more
likely to recognize it and act on the issue more rapidly than an unfamiliar
physician.