Primary care refers to the first point of contact for individuals seeking medical care within the healthcare system. It is a fundamental aspect of healthcare delivery focused on the provision of basic and routine medical services. Primary care providers offer comprehensive healthcare services to patients.

The key features of primary care include:
 

1. Preventive Care: Primary care providers emphasize preventive measures such as vaccinations, screenings, and lifestyle counseling to promote overall health and well-being and to prevent the onset of diseases.

2. Treatment of Common Illnesses: Primary care providers diagnose and treat common acute illnesses and injuries such as colds, flu, infections, and minor injuries.

3. Chronic Disease Management: They also manage chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and arthritis by monitoring patients' conditions, prescribing medications, and coordinating care with specialists as needed.

4. Coordination of Care: Primary care physicians often serve as the central point of contact for patients, coordinating care across different healthcare settings and specialists to ensure continuity and quality of care.

5. Long-term Relationship: Establishing a long-term relationship with patients allows primary care providers to understand their medical history, preferences, and values, which helps in providing personalized care.

6. Health Promotion and Education: Primary care providers educate patients about healthy lifestyle choices, disease prevention, and self-care management strategies.