This rapid literature review was undertaken to refine the scope of subsequent research on the value of locating or employing primary care doctors (e.g. GPs or FPs or generalist) in emergency or inpatient care of local hospitals.

The review found evidence that locating GPs in rural and remote hospitals might reduce disparities of healthcare access for rural and remote communities, especially for surgical, chronic conditions and obstetric services. Expanding these services to rural and remote patients will contribute to ensuring continuity of care received by rural communities.