primary care
noun
: health care provided by a medical professional (such as a general practitioner, pediatrician, or nurse) with whom a patient has initial contact and by whom the patient may be referred to a specialist
—often used before another noun
a primary care physician
called also primary health care
compare secondary care, tertiary careExamples of primary care in a Sentence
He provides primary care to inner-city patients.
Recent Examples on the Web
For the clearance evaluation, a cardiologist or primary care physician might run tests such as an electrocardiogram, an echocardiogram or a nuclear stress test to detect any irregularities or signs of disease, such as arrhythmias, valve problems or blockages.
—
Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN, 6 Feb. 2025
His first recommendation for anyone concerned about hair growth is to see their primary care physician to have routine labs conducted, including thyroid tests, iron, and vitamin D levels.
—Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025
Depending on the severity of your situation, your primary care physician or other referring doctor could make a call on your behalf.
—Angela Haupt, TIME, 3 Feb. 2025
Having a solid balance of electrolytes helps to regulate fluids and pH levels, support muscle and nerve function, and promote brain health, says Dr. Alex Crane, a primary care doctor with Scripps Hospital in San Diego.
—Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for primary care 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN, 6 Feb. 2025
His first recommendation for anyone concerned about hair growth is to see their primary care physician to have routine labs conducted, including thyroid tests, iron, and vitamin D levels.
—Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025
Depending on the severity of your situation, your primary care physician or other referring doctor could make a call on your behalf.
—Angela Haupt, TIME, 3 Feb. 2025
Having a solid balance of electrolytes helps to regulate fluids and pH levels, support muscle and nerve function, and promote brain health, says Dr. Alex Crane, a primary care doctor with Scripps Hospital in San Diego.
—Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for primary care
Dictionary Entries Near primary care
Cite this Entry
“Primary care.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/primary%20care. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share