ABSTRACT
Primary health care, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1978, is essential health care; based on practical, scientifically sound and socially acceptable methods and technology; universally accessible to all in the community through their full participation; at an affordable cost and geared towards self-reliance and self-determination. 1 Primary health care shifts the emphasis of health care to the people themselves and their needs, reinforcing and strengthening their own capacity to shape their lives. Thus, as a strategy, primary health care focuses on individual and community strengths (assets) and opportunities for change (needs); maximises the involvement of the community; includes all relevant sectors but avoids duplication of services and uses only health technologies that are accessible, acceptable, affordable and appropriate. 2,3
