What is Primary Health Care
|
|
|
Top level
News
|
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines health as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity; it is a fundamental human right…’ (WHO, 1978). This definition used by the World Health Organisation gives the understanding that not just physical well-being but also mental and social well-being are important. While caring for the sick is important, it needs to be remembered that there are broader influences than care of illness and disease that determine the health of individuals within communities. ‘Primary Health Care’ is a term that encompasses the broader outlook of health, a more holistic approach.
|
The Declaration of Alma Ata defines Primary Health Care as: “essential health care based on practical, scientifically sound and socially acceptable methods and technology made universally accessible to individuals and families in the community through their full participation and at a cost that the community and country can afford to maintain at every stage of their development in the spirit of self-reliance and self-determination. It forms an integral part both of the country’s health system, of which it is the central function and focus, and of the overall social and economic development of the community. It is the first level of contact of individuals, the family and community with the national health system bringing the health care as close as possible to where people live and work, and constitutes the first element of a continuing health care process.” (WHO, 1978)
The Generational Health Review, 2003, found that the community wants a health system that is: accessible, equitable, sustainable, accountable, affordable and responsive to the changing health needs of the population. The Government’s initial response determined that strengthening the Primary Health Care Policy would underpin this reform. The health system of the future will be easier to use and must have a greater focus on health promotion, prevention and early intervention.
Primary Health Care has a strong emphasis on working with communities and individuals to improve their health and well being. Primary Health Care strategies range from health promotion, health protection, disease prevention, advocacy, social action and community development, through to screening for disease, early risk assessment, diagnosis, early intervention, treatment and rehabilitation, systematic chronic disease management and support for community living. It is often used to describe the first point of contact that a person has with the health system e.g. general practice, community nurses, pharmacist, social workers and other health providers. The principles that underpin Primary Health Care support the Government’s five pillars for building good health:
-
Improving the quality and safety of services.
-
Strengthening and reorienting services towards prevention and Primary Health Care.
-
Developing service integration and cooperation.
-
Adopting whole of Government approaches to advance and improve health status.
-
Greater opportunities for inclusion and community participation.
Mallee Health Service has embracedPrimary Health Careas a new way ofmaintaining the good health of the community, while leaving the existing health structures in place to deal with disease, illness and poor health as it develops.
If you have any questions relating to health or topics you would like us to discuss just drop a line to Florie’s Pearls c/- Mallee Health Service, 1A Vardon Tce, Lameroo 5302
|
|
 |
|
