The primary care concept has developed rapidly, and no single definition for it exists. A review of existing analyses indicated 3 broad criteria: initial contact and care where the physician of 1st contact assesses the situation and provides care for as many problems as possible; integration where the physician coordinates the remainder of the health-care team, including consultants; and continuity where the physician maintains longitudinal contact that involves a personalized advisory relationship beyond mere treatment of illness. How psychiatry fits these criteria is examined. It is now usual for the psychiatrist to be a physician of first contact. He has become the generally acceptable source of help for mental illness formerly hidden or treated by other physicians, and both private and community psychiatric services are now widely available. Self-referral is common. Many others come via family or friends, or are referred directly from non-medical sources such as social or legal agencies and schools. In addition, he coordinates and follows continuously the treatment phases over prolonged periods. Comparisons are made with other primary care specialities; misconceptions are dealt with. Practical issues underlying these points are considered.