Primary health centers often serve as the first point of contact between the public and the healthcare system. Thanks to their proximity to communities, their understanding of local needs, and their interdisciplinary structure—bringing together doctors, nurses, community health professionals, social workers, and others—they are uniquely positioned to act beyond mere disease management.
Health promotion and prevention are, in fact, essential components of primary healthcare. Health centers can help prevent health issues, empower people to manage their own health, and address the social, environmental, and behavioral determinants of health.
In many settings, innovative local initiatives are being developed, covering areas such as health education and literacy, chronic disease prevention, mental health, physical activity, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, vaccination, addiction prevention, outreach to vulnerable populations, and partnerships with community and social stakeholders.
However, these initiatives often lack visibility and sufficient documentation, and securing funding and long-term sustainability remains a challenge. Their development also raises the question of ensuring the meaningful participation of patients and communities in the design, implementation, and evaluation of these activities.
This session aims to:
