Glossary
What is Primary Care?
Primary care is a fundamental and critical aspect of the healthcare system. It represents the first point of contact that individuals have with the healthcare system and serves as the initial interface between people and the medical community. Primary care is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of healthcare services provided by medical professionals, including general practitioners, nurses, and other health professionals.
Primary care is characterized by its:
Comprehensiveness
Coordination
Continuity
Accessibility
Primary care provides:
Comprehensive health services
Preventive and promotive services
Curative services
Rehabilitative services
Referrals to specialists
Coordinate with other healthcare providers -pharmacy, social work, specialists, etc.
Holistic care life long care
Long-term relationships with patients and healthcare providers
Improved health outcomes
Studies have shown that countries with strong primary care systems have better health outcomes and lower health inequalities compared to countries with weak primary care systems.
Primary care providers diagnose and treat a wide variety of health conditions including:
Common illnesses
Chronic diseases
Mental health disorders
They also provide preventive care services such as
Immunizations
Screenings
Health education- to prevent the onset of diseases and promote health
In conclusion, primary care provides comprehensive, coordinated, continuous, and accessible healthcare services to individuals and communities. It plays a pivotal role in promoting health, preventing diseases, reducing health inequalities, and improving health outcomes.