Abstract
Primary care in the NHS refers to the first point of contact within the health system, encompassing services such as community pharmacy, dentistry, and optometry. General practice sits within this umbrella. It offers medical generalism, continuity of care, and long term relationships with patients.1 However, the important distinction between primary care and general practice is often blurred, particularly in policy and operational discussions. General practice is the medical backbone of primary care. As national policies reshape how primary care is organised and delivered, reform must build on the distinctive strengths of general practice, rather than risk reshaping the features that underpin its effectiveness.