International examples of primary care COVID-19 preparedness and response: a comparison of four countries

Article Health Care Sciences & Services

Transformations in the landscape of primary health care during COVID-19: Themes from the European region

Stephanie Kumpunen et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on primary health care in Europe. This study identified three prevalent models of primary health care delivery during the pandemic, including multidisciplinary care teams, identification and outreach to vulnerable populations, and the use of digital solutions for remote services. These models were supported by government enablers such as increased workforce, risk communication, and prioritization of pandemic response efforts.

HEALTH POLICY (2022)

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Article Primary Health Care

The role of general practitioners in managing the COVID-19 pandemic in a private healthcare system

Christine Cohidon et al.

Summary: This study illustrates the involvement of general practitioners in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Vaud, Switzerland, and the complexity and limitations of a primary care system based on private healthcare providers.

FAMILY PRACTICE (2022)

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Review Primary Health Care

Ensuring the continuation of routine primary care during the COVID-19 pandemic: a review of the international literature

Sethunya Matenge et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions to routine primary care services, leading to the adoption of new approaches to ensure continuity. Primary care providers quickly implemented telehealth solutions and infection control measures to provide safe access to care, but faced challenges such as disparities in access to telehealth, difficulties in examining patients, shortages of personal protective equipment, and financial struggles for medical practices. Adequate support and guidance from authorities are crucial to optimize the delivery of comprehensive primary care during pandemics.

FAMILY PRACTICE (2022)

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Article Primary Health Care

Telemedicine in the Western Cape Department of Health during the first peak of the COVID-19 pandemic: Leveraging data to save lives by activating a telemedicine response

Neal J. David et al.

Summary: The global health systems have been strained by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has also led to the emergence of patient-centric medical innovations. In South Africa's Western Cape province, a rudimentary telehealth system was successfully used during the crisis to bend the mortality curve, showcasing an innovative model built out of necessity.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE & FAMILY MEDICINE (2021)

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Review Environmental Sciences

What Could Explain the Lower COVID-19 Burden in Africa despite Considerable Circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus?

Richard G. Wamai et al.

Summary: The differential spread and impact of COVID-19 in Africa has attracted global attention due to the relatively lower case numbers compared to predictions. Various factors such as early government actions, population distribution, social contacts, and ecological factors may have contributed to the milder impacts of the pandemic on the continent.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

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Article Primary Health Care

Integrating primary care and public health to enhance response to a pandemic

Karen Kinder et al.

Summary: Primary health care encompasses primary care and essential public health functions, and successful integration is crucial for better response to emergencies. A survey revealed the challenges faced when lacking coordinated efforts between primary care and public health functions during pandemics.

PRIMARY HEALTH CARE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (2021)

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Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Primary care perspectives on pandemic politics

Felicity Goodyear-Smith et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to diverse responses from countries around the world. Some countries have responded faster than others, with variations in strategy. An international survey of primary care experts examined whether countries' pandemic responses were driven by medical facts, economic models, or political ideals, as well as the decision-making authority at different levels.

GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

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Article Primary Health Care