What, indeed, is General Practice?

In Ireland , it is an independent business resourced from Public and Private revenue streams that offer general medical services to a population. Thus it retains autonomy but carries risking in terms of indemnity, employer obligations, infrastructure provision, pensions etc.

It has certain core characteristics, albeit changing.

  • Continuity of care.
  • Accessible / local.
  • Equity of access.
  • 24/7 care.
  • All ages - "womb to tomb".
  • Acute care - , high volume, early, undifferentiated.
  • Chronic disease management & multimorbidity.
  • Health Promotion & Prevention of illness.
  • Screening.
  • Gate keeper role.
  • Holder of patients complete medical file.
  • Link to other Primary / Secondary care - social care, community care etc.

As well as other roles such as

  • Educator / Trainer.
  • Career long learning with CME.
  • Health Advocate.
  • Policy matters.
  • ICGP / IMO / Medical Council / Medicolegal.