University of Southern California

A Message From Our Director

“Welcome to primary care at the Keck School of Medicine of USC (KSOM). Primary care fields are rich in committed doctor-patient relationships, inclusive medical care across the life span, community leadership and engagement, scholarship, inter-professional team- based care, and a broad variety of  heath care services. At Keck, we also focus on providing  primary care services and resources for our vulnerable and marginalized communities.  We hope this website allows you to explore the rich, vibrant and diverse training, educational and clinical resources we have for our students and campus community.  “

Jo Marie Reilly, MD, MPH
Director Primary Care Initiative, Director Primary Care Program

What is Primary Care?

The Institute of Medicine defines primary care as “the provision of integrated, accessible health care services by clinicians who are accountable for addressing a large majority of personal health care needs, developing a sustained partnership with patients, and practicing in the context of family and community.” According to a 2008 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), research shows that “the nation’s over reliance on specialty care services, at the expense of primary care, leads to a health care system that is less efficient.” The GAO also acknowledges that there is research showing that “preventive care, care coordination for the chronically ill, and continuity of care – all hallmarks of primary care medicine – can achieve better health outcomes and cost savings.”

Simply put, primary care is the backbone of the health care system. Utilizing primary care physicians puts an emphasis on the physician-patient relationship by shifting the focus from physician-centered care to patient-centered care.