The actual role of general practice in the Dutch health-care system

A second Dutch national Survey of General Practice was carried out in 2001 with the aim of providing actual information about the role of general practice in the Dutch health-care system for researchers and policy makers. Data were collected on different levels (patients, general practitioners, practices) and included morbidity (self-report and presented to general practitioners), diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, doctor–patient communication, and background characteristics. Compared to 1987 (the first National Survey), Dutch general practitioners had organized their work more efficiently. Patients were less satisfied (78% satisfied) about the organizational aspects of general practice care than about the care actually provided (90% satisfied). Dutch general practitioners provide high-quality care: on average their performance was in 74% of cases in accordance with national guidelines. Communication in general practice had become less “social” and more medically oriented compared to 1987. General practice still acts in a gatekeeper role; this is illustrated by 96% of contacts handled solely by the general practitioner.