Specialist Physicians Providing Primary Care Services in Colorado

Abstract

Additional evaluation is needed with a more comprehensive definition of primary care than used in this article, which includes important but difficult-to-measure elements, such as the integration of services, a sustained partnership with patients, and practice in the context of family and community. To the extent possible, this definition should not rely on physician self-definition of which examinations are routine and which ailments are common. However, the contribution of specialists should be considered in future primary care needs assessments, and specialists who experience low demand for their particular specialties may be especially inclined to provide primary care services.