[Primary health care in developing countries]

Abstract

The Alma-Ata declaration and global strategy of Health for All by the year 2000 have given political and practical momentum to the delivery of primary health care in developing countries. WHO has provided leadership for this process, with support from other UN agencies and international donor organizations. Primary health care is based on the concept of a District Health System which provides comprehensive services. Community participation and intersectoral collaboration are the cornerstones of primary health care. Using Malawi, Uganda, India and Indonesia as examples, the article explores experiences of health problems and of health care delivery to underprivileged populations in African and Asian countries.