PHC stands for Primary Health Care. It is a term used in healthcare to describe the first level of contact that individuals have with the healthcare system. This type of care is usually provided by doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who serve as the initial point of entry for patients seeking medical assistance.
Primary Health Care encompasses a broad range of services that are essential for maintaining good health and preventing illness. These services include health promotion and education, disease prevention, diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses, and the management of chronic conditions. The goal of PHC is to provide comprehensive, accessible, and patient-centered healthcare to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate care they need when they need it.
PHC often involves the provision of basic healthcare services, such as vaccinations, health screenings, and routine physical examinations. It also includes the coordination of care across multiple healthcare providers and settings, ensuring that patients receive continuous and integrated care.
The concept of PHC is rooted in the principles of equity, accessibility, and the need to address the social determinants of health. It aims to promote universal healthcare coverage and improve the health outcomes of individuals and communities, particularly those who are vulnerable and underserved.
In summary, PHC refers to the first level of contact that individuals have with the healthcare system, providing a comprehensive range of basic healthcare services aimed at promoting health, preventing illness, and managing common conditions.
