General practice serves as the primary entry point into health care for all Danish citizens. Approximately 90% of all contacts from Danish citizens are completed in general practice. The many decisions taken should be made on a scientific basis, and this is where the research units for general practice play a crucial role.

The organisation of general practice and the cooperation with hospitals and other health-care providers should also be based on solid knowledge, such as the knowledge created through the research activities conducted by the research units.

According to the formal regulations, the research units must conduct research in general practice and other parts of the health-care system. Furthermore, the research units provide consulting services for general practitioners and others who plan to initiate research projects in general medicine.