The World Health Organization’s PHC Measurement and Improvement (PHCMI) initiative has made significant strides in enhancing primary health care across the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR), involving 14 countries and one territory since its inception in 2019.
Strengthening Health Care Systems
Building on the global PHC Performance Initiative, PHCMI tailored its approach by updating the master indicator list to align with the unique priorities of each participating country. The evaluation focused on five key domains: system structure, inputs, processes, outcomes, and impact, utilizing policy documents, data sources, and interviews with key informants to assess progress comprehensively.
Key Success Factors and Challenges
Despite the diverse implementation strategies across the region, most countries demonstrated that their public primary care services remain acceptable, accessible, and affordable to the population. Critical success factors included strong leadership, robust national health policies centered on PHC, and active stakeholder engagement. However, the initiative identified several areas requiring further attention, such as increasing investments in primary health care, expanding and equitably distributing the PHC workforce, enhancing training programs for primary care clinicians, improving health information systems, and promoting preventive care benefits among the population.
Inference:
- Enhanced leadership and policy frameworks directly contribute to effective PHC implementation.
- Investment in workforce expansion and equitable distribution is essential for sustainable PHC services.
- Comprehensive training and improved health information systems are pivotal for quality primary care.
- Public education on preventive measures can lead to better health outcomes and resource utilization.
The PHCMI initiative has established a robust foundation for ongoing dialogue aimed at advancing universal health coverage and ensuring health security within the EMR. By reorienting health systems to prioritize primary health care, the region is better positioned to address both current and future health challenges. For stakeholders and policymakers, the initiative underscores the importance of sustained investment and strategic planning in PHC to achieve long-term health system resilience and improved population health outcomes.
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