Starfield's concept of longitudinality refers to

• A. Continuity of care over time
• B. A one-time consultation
• C. Short-term care only
• D. Availability of emergency services

Answer: (A)

Longitudinality is continuity of care over time, the ongoing relationship between a patient and a clinician or care team that persists across multiple encounters and across different health events. This sustained connection lets the clinician know the patient’s history, preferences, and social context, track health changes, and coordinate care as needs evolve. In Starfield’s framework for primary care, this dimension underpins reliable, patient-centered care by ensuring care isn’t just a one-off visit but is integrated over years. The other options describe episodic or urgent care rather than a lasting, ongoing relationship.