Primary Care
Primary Care is a part of primary health care (PHC), but the two terms have different meanings.
Primary Care, often the first point of contact for patients, is provided by family physicians, nurse practitioners and other health professionals. It encompasses routine and episodic care, preventive healthcare, and assistance in managing chronic conditions. Evidence shows that patients connected to a family doctor or nurse practitioner, along with a wider team of allied health professionals, consistently demonstrate positive health outcomes across various indicators
Primary Health Care is broader and describes a health policy and service approach that includes primary care, public health functions, and other services. PHC aims to improve health for everyone by addressing health determinants and connecting clinical, non-clinical, and community supports. PHC also includes disease prevention, health promotion, and providing healthcare to underserved populations.