Primary care is a modality of care delivery in which each client has one main caregiver designated as a care coordinator, allowing for personal care of the client. The client and the primary caregiver are matched with personality, cultural background and compatibility in mind.

Primary care enables the primary caregiver to see the client as a whole person where past, present and future concepts are appreciated, as opposed to the traditional task-oriented approach of dealing only with the present.

Primary care fosters initiative and creativity, requiring the caregiver to learn every detail relating to the needs of the client. Ongoing education for the primary caregiver is custom designed according to the client's needs, resulting in a care plan based on sound expert knowledge.

The primary caregiver enlists and coordinates the services of a team of service providers, developed specifically for the client, and ensures that everyone is aware of the client's needs and that the care plan is adhered to. Within this coordinated plan, team members work collaboratively with the client to ensure consistency and continuity of care. Recommendations by professionals are included in care plans and the primary caregiver incorporates the programs into daily routines.

The primary caregiver maintains a high profile as the contact person with the authority and knowledge to make quick decisions related to direct care, delivered in the least disruptive manner possible.

Families also benefit from the primary caregiver system of delivery as they will always know who to contact with new information, changes in schedules or other concerns. Primary care helps to eliminates the need for clients and their families to repeatedly orient new staff members.

The primary care method of service delivery is a concept which is challenging, rewarding, and well received by clients, their families and caregivers.