The joint WHO-UNICEF vision for primary health care in
the 21st century in support of the Global Conference on
Primary Health Care on 25–26 October 2018 defines primary
health care as a “whole-of-society approach” to maximize the level
and distribution of health and well-being by acting simultaneously on
three components: 1) primary care and essential public health functions as
the core of integrated health services, 2) multisectoral policy and action, and 3)
empowerment of people and communities. Primary health care has been shown
to be the most equitable, effective, and cost-effective way to enhance the health of
populations.
To effectively implement the first component requires understanding how to effectively
integrate health services. Integrated health services respond to the needs of individuals and
populations and deliver comprehensive good-quality services throughout the life course
through multidisciplinary teams who work together across settings and use evidence and
feedback loops to continuously improve performance. Integrated health services, when based
on strong primary care and essential public health functions, strengthen people-centred
health systems and contribute to the best use of resources.
This working definition of integration is anchored in the principles set out in the health-for-
all agenda and vision for primary health care. It adopts a health system perspective that
acknowledges the importance of the alignment of all health system functions and effective
change management for integrated care to be achieved.
