ROLE OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE FACILITIES IN LEVERAGING INTEGRATED HEALTH SYSTEMS IN HEALTH CARE REFORM CONTEXT IN UKRAINE

Abstract

Introduction. Article delves into the current practices and future direction of integrated primary health care (PHC) in Ukraine, emphasizing its pivotal role in addressing contemporary health challenges. Integrated PHC, which amalgamates medical and social services, is essential for improving care quality and access, particularly for those with chronic conditions. The historical context of PHC in Ukraine is discussed, noting the inception of integrated care models in the 1990s and their evolution influenced by various factors including military conflicts and health care decentralization. Purpose. The purpose of this article is to analyze the current practices of integrated PHC in Ukraine, evaluate its role in the context of health care reform, identify challenges and opportunities that arise during the implementation of integrated health systems amidst the ongoing war, and provide recommendations for the further development of integrated PHC considering the Ukrainian context. Methods. This study is based on a comprehensive literature review. The research involved analyzing existing literature on integrated PHC models, historical documents on health care reforms in Ukraine, and reports from health organizations to understand the current state and challenges of PHC integration in Ukraine. Results. The findings indicate that Ukraine has made significant progress in expanding access to PHC, with more than 80% of the population now having a declaration with a family doctor. Integrated care models have shown potential in improving health outcomes and reducing unnecessary hospital visits. However, the implementation of these models faces several challenges, including the lack of consensus on definitions and goals, coordination difficulties among multiple service providers, and ongoing legislative and funding adjustments.Conclusion. The ongoing war in Ukraine presents both challenges and opportunities for health sector reform. Innovations arising during conflicts can act as catalysts for long-term improvements in health outcomes. The article emphasizes the need for continued reform to expand access to PHC, enhance service delivery, and ensure equitable health services across different regions. It calls for significant investments in infrastructure, professional training, and regulatory reforms to build a robust and resilient health system. Additionally, flexible, context-specific strategies are crucial for the effective implementation of integrated care models, which are essential for sustainable health improvements and supporting Ukraine's economic stability.