Thursday Lecture Series: Primary Care in the U.S. Healthcare System – Challenges and Opportunities

Primary care is the foundation of a high-functioning health system—yet in the U.S., it faces growing strain. This presentation will explore the evidence behind primary care’s value, examine how current policies and events are shaping its future, and highlight emerging models of innovation. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of primary care’s critical role and leave better equipped to navigate both primary and specialty care within the evolving U.S. healthcare landscape.

Julie Phillips, MD, MPH (she/hers) is Professor and Chair of Family Medicine at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. She leads a statewide department focused on community-engaged education, care, and research. A national leader in medical education research, Dr. Phillips’ interests include primary care workforce development, narrative medicine, and size-inclusive care. She practices Family Medicine in East Lansing, Michigan.