An explanation for the difference in general practitioner consultation rates between GMS and non-GMS patients.

This study compares annual consultation rates between 3,111 General Medical Services and private patients, and their family doctors in three large general practices in Dublin. Visiting rates were substantially different between practices and between GMS and private patients. However, GMS patients were older and had 50% more chronic illnesses. When the effects of age and illness were controlled in a multiple regression model, GMS status accounted for less than 5% of the variation in visiting rates. GMS patients consult their practitioners in proportion to their medical need.