Online
Join the Child Health Task Force’s Re-imagining the Package of Care for Children subgroup, WHO, and Global Communities for a series in which we will discuss key strategies, challenges, and innovations in delivering integrated child-centered health services to children within the primary health care (PHC) framework.
Series Background: The majority of essential interventions for UHC can be delivered using a PHC approach. Links of primary health care to better health outcomes, improved equity, increased health security and better cost-efficiency make primary health care the cornerstone of health systems strengthening. It plays a crucial role in meeting a significant proportion of healthcare needs, with studies suggesting that PHC addresses up to 80% of individuals' healthcare needs.
PHC approach to health combines: (a) primary care and essential public health functions (EPHFs) as the core of integrated health services; (b) multisectoral policy and action; and (c) empowered people and communities. PHC stresses early detection and management of diseases which reduces the burden on higher-level healthcare facilities, enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. By prioritizing health promotion and education, primary health care empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health, fostering trust and continuity of care. PHC serves as a tool for addressing health disparities and promoting equity by reaching underserved populations and communities and promoting quality and resilience.
Session 1: Why Now? A Global Push for PHC
Session Overview: Our first session provided an overview of PHC and look into how PHC has evolved over time. We learned about donor investments in PHC as a strategy to accelerate progress in health and survival of children. We heard from Burkina Faso's Ministry of Health on how Burkina Faso has prioritized primary health care in practice.
Speakers:
Dr. Valerie Zombre Sanon, Director of Family Health, Burkina Faso Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene
Dr. Nancy Lowenthal, Director, Office of Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition, USAID Global Health Bureau
- Dr. Mickey Chopra, Lead Health Specialist, Health Nutrition and Population Global Practice, World Bank
Session 2: Primary care and essential public health functions
Session Overview: Our second session provided a deeper dive into the integrated management of childhood illnesses (IMCI) and explore IMCI as a tool in Primary Healthcare (PHC) services for children. By integrating evidence-based guidelines, such as assessment, classification, and treatment, streamlines healthcare processes and ensures comprehensive management of childhood illnesses, thereby fostering better health outcomes for children. However, despite its potential benefits, it's crucial to acknowledge the existing gaps in IMCI implementation, including challenges in sustained training, resource allocation, and healthcare system integration. Addressing these gaps is essential for maximizing the effectiveness of IMCI and optimizing PHC for children.
Speakers:
- Dr. Wilson Were, Medical Officer, Lead Child Health Services, WHO
- Dr. Kezia K’Oduol, Lwala Community Alliance, Director of Primary Health Care