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Definition of general practice

Authoring team

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:

  1. JRCGP 1977 27:117
  2. JRCGP 1980 30:231

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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