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We write in support of the sentiments expressed so eloquently by Newbery and Young in their June letter in Canadian Family Physician (1) responding to the April 2020 editorial entitled “The exhausted physician”(2). We are proud generalist family physicians who have been comprehensive caregivers in our practice careers. We have also been medical school deans who have argued that all medical graduates must appreciate the role of the generalist, no matter their chosen practice discipline. In a Report on Generalism produced by the PGME Collaborative Governance Council (3), the following definitions of generalism and generalist physicians were presented, based on definitions developed by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the UK’s Royal College of General Practitioners:
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Generalism* is a professional philosophy of practice, distinguished by a commitment to holistic, integrated, person-centred care, the broadest scope of practice within each discipline and collaboration with the larger health care team in order to respond to patient and community health needs.
Generalists are a specific set of physicians and surgeons with core abilities characterized by a broad-based practice. Generalists diagnose and manage clinical problems that are diverse, undifferentiated and often complex. Generalists have an essential role in coordinating patient care and advocating for patients. (Royal College, 2013)
While the following apply in varying degrees...Competing Interests: None declared.