Continuity in general practice as predictor of mortality, acute hospitalisation, and use of out-of-hours care: a registry-based observational study in Norway (4 October 2021)

Summary

Continuity, usually considered a quality aspect of primary care, is under pressure in Norway, and elsewhere. An association lasting more than 15 years between a patient and a specific GP reduces the probability of any of these factors by 25-30%, a study by Sandvik et al. found.

The researchers said 'promoting stability among GPs' should be a priority for health authorities, and warned that continuity of care was under pressure.