Delays in accessing primary care.

In this article the author discusses patients in Great Britain who, as a result of policy changes, are delaying health care and potentially putting themselves at risk of serious health consequences. Results of a study by Lasserson and colleagues, and studies from the U.S. and Australia, support these findings. Studies from the U.S. suggest that women were more likely to see a specialists during an acute illness. A Canadian study suggests that people have a greater propensity to seek emergency care if their doctor had instructed them to ahead of time. Educating patients about seeking emergency care, particularly elderly patients at risk for myocardial infarction or transient ischemic attacks, and extending hours of operation are recommended.