Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: Atención primaria
Primary care (PRY-mayr-ee…)
Health services that meet most basic health care needs over time. Primary care includes physical exams, treatment of common medical conditions, and preventive care such as immunizations and screenings. Primary care doctors are usually the first health professionals patients see for basic medical care. They may refer a patient to a specialist if needed.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.