Table 2.

What Is It Like To Have a Personal Physician?

  • Comfortable, intimate relationship, like family or friend.

  • Trust, confidence, security; having a go-to person.

  • You are known. You don’t have to retell your story. You are the exception to the guideline. You and your life’s context are important.

  • You have an advocate, navigator, coordinator for the “confusing and frightening” health care system—someone who follows up with specialists.

  • Convenient access (via office visit, phone, E-mail).

  • Shared decision making and mutual respect.

  • Knowledgeable, both in terms of personal knowledge of the patient and book knowledge.

  • Coach for preventive care/overall well-being.

  • Part of a health care team.