The Vital Role of Primary Care

Primary care physicians are often the ‘quarterback’ in their patients’ care, connecting and coordinating with other parts of the health care system. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of the job, and it’s the reason a strong primary care system is at the core of health care reform efforts nationally. The Pathway Program will equip future primary care physicians with the skills and experience they need to thrive as quarterbacks and help patients achieve their goals. 

-  Matt Press, MD, Physician Executive of Penn Primary Care and Medical Director of the Primary Care Service Line

Primary care physicians diagnose and treat acute and chronic illnesses; prevent disease and maintain health; collaborate with other health providers; and innovate and advance knowledge through research in patient care and its delivery. Primary care physicians understand how social determinants affect nearly every aspect of a person's health and well-being. They act as a health care partner, educator, advocate and navigator — ideally, throughout a patient's lifespan. In today's environment, the need for primary care physicians is greater than ever before.

The Pathway to a Better Future

The Perelman School of Medicine proudly offers the Measey Primary Care Pathway to equip the next generation of highly qualified patient-centered primary care physicians with the skills they need to transform the field. This comprehensive program not only includes clinical experiences, but also mentoring from exceptional role models; research and scholarship opportunities; team learning; courses and workshops; and community engagement experiences.

We invite first, second, and third year Perelman School of Medicine students who are interested in family medicine, general internal medicine, outpatient pediatrics, or geriatrics to apply.  See program highlights for a snapshot of the Pathway experience.