First contact refers to what in primary care?

• A. The provider is the initial point of entry into the healthcare system for a patient
• B. The ongoing relationship between patient and provider over time
• C. The coordination across multiple providers and services
• D. The ability to address a wide range of patient needs

Answer: (A)

First contact means that the primary care provider is the initial point of entry into the healthcare system for a patient. When you have a new health concern or preventive need, you first approach a PCP who can assess you, address what can be managed in primary care, and determine whether you need referrals or more specialized tests. This role emphasizes easy access and initial triage, helping you start care in the right place. It’s different from ongoing care, which focuses on maintaining a continuous relationship over time, and from care coordination across multiple providers or from a broad range of services, which describe other functions of primary care rather than the entry point.