Primary care delivery in the United States and four northwest European countries: comparing the "corporatized" with the "socialized".

Primary care--often considered the weak link in the United States health care delivery system--is the focal point of several European systems. Thoughtful analysis of structural and service differences and similarities among these approaches--whether "corporatized" or "socialized"--reveals areas for helpful innovation in the United States. Matters of access to and continuity of services, preventive care for children, long-term care, and accountability are especially relevant for primary care in an American context.