Family practice is a term that is often used in the medical community to describe a type of healthcare that focuses on the whole family unit rather than just individual patients. Alternative synonyms for family practice include primary care, general practice, or family medicine. These terms all refer to the same type of healthcare that covers a wide range of services, including preventive care, treatment for acute illnesses, and management of chronic conditions. Other similar terms may include family health care or comprehensive medical care, each of which emphasizes the important role that a family physician can play in providing ongoing medical care and support for the entire family.