Family physicians use their understanding of human development and family and other social systems to develop a comprehensive approach to the management of disease and illness in patients and their families. Family physicians are also adept at working with patients to reach common ground on the definition of the problems, goals of treatment, and roles of physician and patient in management. Family medicine is based in the community and is significantly influenced by community factors. As a member of the community, the family physician is able to respond to people's changing needs, to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, and to mobilize appropriate resources to address patients' needs. Clinical problems presenting to a community-based family physician are not preselected and are commonly encountered at an undifferentiated stage.
Family physicians are skilled at dealing with ambiguity and uncertainty.
Finally, the family physician may provide palliative care to people with terminal diseases. Family physicians see themselves as part of a community network of health care providers and are skilled at collaborating as team members or team leaders. They use referral to specialists and community resources judiciously. Family physicians have effective strategies for self-directed, lifelong learning. Family physicians have the responsibility to advocate public policy that promotes their patients' health.