definition of general practice
Last reviewed 01/2018
The GP is the doctor who specialises in the patient: medical expertise is no substitute for this understanding. The Royal College of GP's definition refers to:
- the physical, psychological and social aspects of diagnosis
- the personal, primary and continuing nature of the care of individuals and families
- the early diagnosis, initial decisions and continuing management of problems
- current, chronic and terminal types of illness
- treatment, prevention and education for promoting health
- care for patients, families and the community (1)
Pereira Gray (ex-president of RCGP)'s definition refers to:
- primary, family, domiciliary and continuing care designed to achieve preventive and personal care (2)
Reference:
- JRCGP 1977 27:117
- JRCGP 1980 30:231