Process analysis in general practice--a new perspective?

This paper reports the initial findings from a study of the application of process analysis into a general practice. It discusses the issues surrounding the relationships between clinical and managerial tasks. A new model of primary care is proposed which takes into account management issues and separates out non-patient contact activities. Evidence is presented and conclusions and drawn about front/back office activities, general practice as a small business, patient care and suggestions are made for future work.