Health Policy Manag.  2017 Sep;27(3):256-266. 10.4332/KJHPA.2017.27.3.256.

A Comparative Study on Primary Health Care in Republic of Korea and Republic of Uzbekistan

• Dronina Y
• Moon J
• Nam EW

• KMID: 2394607
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4332/KJHPA.2017.27.3.256

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Primary health care (PHC) plays a major role to ensure the basic right and equal distribution of the essential health care services. This study presents comparative analyses of PHC in Korea and Uzbekistan, discusses the existing scenario and the challenges, and provides recommendations.
METHODS
This study reviewed secondary data from Korea's National Statistical Information Service and the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Statistic, regulatory legislation, research reports, and policy papers by research and international institutions. We focus on comparing input and outcome health data, PHC structure, and health expenditure.
RESULTS
Overall health status of the population in Korea is better than in Uzbekistan; both countries achieved more than 95% immunization coverage. The reforms implemented in both countries provide initial health care service delivery. However, there are several challenges such as the distribution of the staff between urban and rural areas and interest of the graduates on specialization rather than working in PHC system.
CONCLUSION
PHC plays an important role in the provision of medical services to the population, addressing both health and social problems; it is the best tool for achieving universal coverage for basic health needs of the population. The community health practitioners in Korea and nurses in Uzbekistan plays main role in universal coverage through providing essential health care services. Continuous reform of the PHC system should be directed to strengthen the capacity of the PHC staff in health promotion knowledge and activities as well as to encourage population to improve their own health.

Keyword

Primary health care; Korea; Uzbekistan; Public health; Health care reform

MeSH Terms

Delivery of Health Care
Health Care Reform
Health Expenditures
Health Promotion
Immunization
Information Services
Korea
Primary Health Care*
Public Health
Republic of Korea*
Research Report
Social Problems
Universal Coverage
Uzbekistan*