PHC-oriented models of care: country illustrations from Bangladesh, Chile, Ghana, Iran, New Zealand, and Slovenia (Chapter 6)

"Chapter 6 of the report “Implementing the primary health care (PHC) approach: a primer” captures country illustrations from Bangladesh, Chile, Ghana, Iran, New Zealand, and Slovenia on PHC-oriented models of care. 

Bangladesh’s case study highlights the community clinic programme and community health workers aiming for Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It emphasizes first-contact accessibility and community engagement.

Chile’s case study discusses comprehensive health reforms since 2005 for universal health access, featuring the integration of service delivery networks through “Explicit Health Guarantees.” The Comprehensive Family and Community Health Care Model focuses on people, families, and communities. Challenges include service planning, referral mechanisms, and community engagement.

Ghana’s case study reviews health sector reforms at community, subdistrict, and district levels to achieve UHC. The Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) Initiative addresses primary care gaps. Community health officers and health provider networks tackle financing, staffing, and infrastructure challenges.

Iran's case study covers healthcare reforms over four decades focusing on disadvantaged populations. A multi-tiered health and referral system in urban and rural areas reduces inequalities and improves outcomes through coordinated services and multidisciplinary teams.

New Zealand’s case study highlights the Health Strategy improving PHC via optimized care pathways, referrals, and coordination. The digitized HealthPathways system and multidisciplinary teams enhance service connections, though vertical and intersectoral integration need improvement.

Slovenia’s case study details a community-based PHC model aiming for UHC. Primary care is provided through community-level centers, with public health services coordinated by a central body. Multidisciplinary health professionals supplement general practice, and committees create action plans to meet community needs. The National Health Plan (2019-2025) focuses on improving social determinants of health."