Implementing the primary health care approach: a primer
Overview
This Primer is about the 'how' of primary health care (PHC) and
brings together best practices and knowledge that countries have generated
through 'natural experiments' in strengthening PHC with the best available
research evidence. Despite the progress made towards PHC globally, the concept
is still often misunderstood, even within the public health community. The
Primer offers a contemporary understanding of PHC and more conceptual clarity
for strengthening PHC-oriented health systems. It does so by consolidating both
scientific evidence and an extensive sample of practical experiences across
countries for the needed evidence to address practical implementation
issues.
The Primer is organized in three parts. Part I explains the
PHC approach, its history, core concepts and rationale, and draws out lessons
for transformation. Part II addresses operational and strategic levers
that make PHC work. It covers governance, financing and human resources for
health, medicines, health technology, infrastructure and digital health, and
their role in implementing change. Part III concludes with a cross-cutting
view of the impacts of PHC on the health system, efficiency, quality of care,
equity, access, financial protection and health systems resilience, including
in the face of climate change.