A method for assuring continuity of care in residency training experience

A system of patient handling was devised at the University of Virginia to assure continuity of care in a residency training primary care setting. All unscheduled primary care patients as well as walk-in patients making their third visit were seen in the Attending Clinic to assure a proper disposition. The system was studied for one month. Data on the utilization of the system and its usefulness in maintaining continuity are presented. The Attending Clinic is a helpful tool in a teaching medical practice for provision of continuity of care and for systematically introducing patients into the primary care practice.