Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book talks about a critique of the scientific model in medicine, by interrogating complexity in primary care its contemporary manifestation in the shape of evidence-based medicine. The intellectual tradition of science in medicine is glorious, its contribution is immeasurably beneficial and its progress is magnificent. Most general practitioners understand that claim in the technical sense – they are unique among healthcare professionals in having diagnostic and management skills that transcend the arbitrary boundaries of specialisms. The diabetic retina, the ischaemic foot, the menorrhagic uterus and the arthritic hallux are all meat and bone to the general practitioner's morning surgeries. Technical generalism is the bedrock of competent general practice.