What is Primary Healthcare?
Primary Healthcare (PHC) is the first level of contact for individuals, families, and communities with the national health system. It is comprehensive, addressing the main health problems in the community, providing promotive, preventive, curative, and rehabilitative services.
Historical Background
The concept of PHC gained international prominence with the Alma Ata Declaration (1978), which advocated for 'Health for All' through PHC. In India, the Bhore Committee Report (1946) laid the foundation for an integrated health service with a strong primary care component. Subsequent National Health Policies have consistently emphasized strengthening PHC as the cornerstone of the healthcare system.