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. Family physicians accept their responsibility in the health care system for wise stewardship of scarce resources. They consider the needs of both the individual and the community. Family physicians understand and appreciate the human condition, especially the nature of suffering and patients' response to sickness. Family physicians are aware of their strengths and limitations, and recognize when their own personal issues interfere with effective care.