What future for continuity of care in general practice?

摘要

Changes in society and professional developments are squeezing out traditional continuity of care. Patients want doctors who listen and solve problems more than longitudinal continuity. Longitudinal continuity should be replaced by personal continuity, where medical decisions are taken by the patient in consultation with the doctor. Seeing the same patients increases job satisfaction and education but requires high personal commitment. A policy of personal continuity requires commitment from all members of the primary care team. Continuity of care with the whole team may be more feasible than continuity with one doctor.