Primary Health Care Practice Journal: a pathway to universal health coverage and sustainable development through scientific evidence and field lessons

¹Amref International University, Nairobi, Kenya, ²Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Bondo, Kenya, ³Amref Health Africa in Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya

^&Corresponding author
Alice Lakati, Amref International University, Nairobi, Kenya

Editorial    

This editorial introduces the Primary Health Care Practice Journal (PHCPJ), a new addition to the Pan African Medical Journal (PAMJ) family, to the scholars and practitioners of primary health care. The launch of this new journal, dedicated to Primary Health Care (PHC) practice is both timely and essential, reflecting the growing recognition of PHC as the cornerstone of equitable and resilient health systems. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines PHC as essential health care, based on practical, scientifically founded, and socially acceptable methods and technologies, made available to all individuals and families in the community, through their full participation, and at a cost that the community and the country can bear, at each and every stage of their development, in a spirit of self-responsibility and self-determination [1]. Primary Health Care (PHC) serves as a central function and main focus of a country's health system while also contributing significantly to the social and economic development of communities [1]. It is deeply rooted in the principles of self-responsibility, self-determination, accessibility, community engagement, and equity [2-5].

Since the seminal Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978 and its recent reaffirmation in the Astana Declaration of 2018, PHC has been recognized as indispensable to achieving universal health coverage (UHC) and sustainable development goals (SDGs) [3,4,6]. Despite its recognized importance, the full realization of PHC´s potential remains a global challenge. Uneven progress, coupled with emerging health crises, underscores the need for renewed focus, innovation, and collaboration to strengthen PHC systems worldwide [7,8].

The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has further underscored PHC´s vital role as the first line of defence in protecting populations and maintaining essential health services [9,10]. However, it also exposed vulnerabilities in health systems, particularly in the sharing of best practices, especially within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) [9]. As health disparities grow and the evidence supporting PHC expands, there is an urgent need to synthesize and apply this knowledge to reimagine PHC-leveraging technology, community-driven solutions, and interdisciplinary research to deliver people-centered care that addresses social determinants of health in an environment of strong political will [9]. Existing journals often address PHC only tangentially, leaving a critical gap for platforms dedicated to the unique challenges, innovations, and contexts that shape PHC delivery and practice particularly in LMIC contexts.

The Primary Health Care Practice Journal aims to fill this void, creating a platform to showcase evidence on which to anchor PHC practices that prioritize PHC as a transformative force in achieving health equity and resilience across Africa and beyond. It provides a dynamic platform for the academic community, thought leaders, policymakers, and practitioners to share insights, innovations, and lessons learned. Furthermore, the journal aims to enhance the visibility of programmatic data and spotlight PHC models of care implemented in Africa and beyond.

By curating evidence-based knowledge and highlighting success stories from across the continent and the globe, the journal fosters a Pan-African and global dialogue that champions equity and excellence in PHC delivery, advancing its role as the cornerstone of resilient, inclusive, and sustainable health systems worldwide.

This editorial introduces the journal as a Pan-African platform for scholarly works, fostering dialogue and innovation in PHC. We welcome contributions spanning Public and Community Health, Clinical Practice, Digital Health, Social Determinants of Health, Disease Epidemiology, Global Health Security, Rehabilitation Medicine, Implementation Research, Capacity Building, Reproductive Health, and Mental and Occupational Health. These focus areas reflect the multifaceted nature of PHC, offering transformative pathways to strengthen health systems and promote equitable health outcomes. The journal underscores a collective vision of PHC as the cornerstone of resilient and inclusive health systems across Africa and beyond [9].

As we navigate the complexities of modern health challenges, PHC must evolve to meet the moment [8]. This evolution requires not only technical solutions but also a recommitment by all stakeholders to the foundational values of PHC-equity, participation, and holistic care. By embracing these principles, PHC can be a transformative force, addressing the root causes of health inequities and building resilient communities [9].

This journal aims to be more than a repository of scholarly work; it aspires to serve as a rallying point. Through the PHCPJ, we endeavor to engage, inspire, challenge, and connect stakeholders across various sectors and disciplines, extending its impact across Africa and beyond through its innovative publication strategies.

Together, we can create a world where primary health care is not just a cornerstone of health systems but a foundation for social justice and human dignity. To our diverse stakeholders, contributors, and partners: your impactful participation is essential. We invite you to join this collaborative effort by sharing your insights, opinions, and perspectives challenging conventional thinking through our PHCPJ as you advocate for the transformative power of PHC. Together, we can reinforce PHC as the cornerstone of resilient health systems and a pathway toward a healthier, more equitable world, starting with our gateway journal.

Competing interests     

The authors declare no competing interests.

Authors' contributions     

All the authors read and approved the final version of this manuscript.

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