This study aims to identify and explain which aspects of medical care patients valued and expected from the general practitioner. A questionnaire was given to a sample of 774 patients (86% response rate) from 15 practices. Patients rated the importance and ranked 40 different questions relating to their medical care. Aspects related to technical care were ranked highest. Patients gave low priority to aspects of care related to practice organisation. Enough time during consultations and quick services in case of emergencies got top rank in the study. The study provides information on patients' priorities regarding their general practitioner