Primary health care (PHC) plays a fundamental role in healthcare systems by serving as the initial point of contact for individuals, families, and communities. Here are key points related to PHC:
- Definition: Primary health care refers to the first level of care that individuals, families, and communities receive from the national health system. It is designed to address the main health problems in the community and provide a wide range of health services, including health promotion, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
- Comprehensive approach: PHC adopts a comprehensive approach to healthcare, considering not only the physical health of individuals but also their mental, social, and emotional well-being. It recognizes the interconnectedness of various health determinants and aims to provide holistic care.
- Essential health services: PHC encompasses a broad range of services, including:
- Health promotion: Promoting healthy behaviors, raising awareness about health issues, and empowering individuals to take control of their health through education and preventive measures.
- Disease prevention: Implementing strategies to prevent the occurrence of diseases or reduce their impact through immunization programs, screening initiatives, and health education.
- Curative services: Providing diagnosis, treatment, and management of common illnesses and health conditions at the community level, including minor injuries, infections, and chronic diseases.
- Rehabilitation: Supporting individuals in their recovery and rehabilitation process after illness, injury, or disability, aiming to restore their functioning and improve their quality of life.
- Accessibility and equity: PHC strives to ensure that essential health services are accessible, affordable, and provided without discrimination to all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, gender, ethnicity, or geographical location. It emphasizes equity and the reduction of health disparities.
- Collaboration and coordination: PHC encourages collaboration and coordination among different healthcare providers and sectors, including public health agencies, community organizations, and specialized care providers. It promotes a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare delivery, emphasizing teamwork and integration of services.
PHC is a cornerstone of healthcare systems worldwide, focusing on meeting the health needs of individuals and communities in a comprehensive, accessible, and equitable manner. It serves as a foundation for promoting population health, preventing diseases, and ensuring effective healthcare delivery.
