Primary care: The primary care level often includes everyday healthcare, given by general doctors and nurses at a physician's office who act as the first contact with a patient for non-emergency situations. Secondary care: The secondary care level refers to health services given by specialized medical professionals who are typically the second contact with a patient, often referred from the primary care provider. Tertiary care: The tertiary care level is for extremely specialized care over a short or extended period involving complex and advanced equipment, treatment or procedures, often for severe or life-threatening conditions.