Current Status and Future Directions of Primary Care in the World: Insights from Australia
10.21215/kjfp.2025.15.1.27
- Author:
Su Jin KIM
1
;
Belong CHO
;
Ji Young KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From:
Korean Journal of Family Practice
2025;15(1):27-32
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Primary care is a key component in building an efficient and sustainable healthcare system, providing comprehensive health management through a patient-centered approach. Countries worldwide continue to reform their primary care systems to enhance their effectiveness within diverse healthcare environments and socioeconomic contexts. Among them, Australia is recognized for its well-established primary care system. It provides universal health coverage through Medicare. General practitioners offer comprehensive medical services and play a pivotal role in Australia’s primary care system. To further support primary care, the Primary Health Networks (PHNs), a community-based medical service network, has been established. However, challenges remain, such as a shortage of workforce shortages and regional disparity in medical resources. To address these issues, the Australian government announced the “Primary Health Care 10 Year plan.” Through the efforts, Australia is expected to further strengthen its primary care system.
