Primary health care is the first point of contact for health care for most people. It is mainly provided by GPs (general practitioners), but community pharmacists, opticians and dentists are also primary health care providers. Primary Health Care is founded on the interconnecting principles of equity, access, empowerment, community self-determination and intersectoral collaboration. It encompasses an understanding of the social, environmental, economic, cultural, and political determinants of health. Primary care is the first level of care that patients receive, and is focused on patient wellness and the prevention of severe health conditions. Secondary care is more specialized and focuses on helping patients who are struggling with more severe or complex health conditions requiring the support of a specialist.