ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the values of the practice. It begins by looking at the factors that have influenced the development of the general practice. The chapter describes three roles for the practice: to influence health, to deal with populations and to function as an organization. The role of the practitioner is encompassed by the idea of the family doctor and the role of the practice in the new public health. Some practices in the late 1980s were showing no signs of taking on the population and health perspectives espoused by the leaders of the profession, or even of developing teamwork within their organization. The health of a population can be improved by treating illness, preventing disease and promoting health. Clinical assessments of need, of the quality of care and of the effectiveness of medical interventions are of great importance in commissioning health care.
