Analyzing the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Primary Health Care and the Service Delivery Network in Baguio City, Philippines

Jamie Eloise M. Agbayani

doi:10.64423/arpa.v32i1.33

Authors

Jamie Eloise M. Agbayani School of Government, Ateneo de Manila University, Philippines Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64423/arpa.v32i1.33

Keywords:

Local health systems, COVID-19, Health Care Provider Network, Public health infrastructure, Service Delivery System

Abstract

A study was conducted in Baguio City, Philippines, with the objectives of evaluating the delivery of primary health care (PHC) and establishing its health care provider network (HCPN) amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges encountered were identified, and the actions taken and key strategies to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 were analyzed. Guided by the Primary Health Care Performance Initiative Conceptual Framework, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with 25 participants from the city government, public and private healthcare providers, and patients. Thematic analysis from interviews revealed significant deficiencies in PHC, a fragmented HCPN, and a lack of robust public health infrastructure. Actions taken were consistent with the PHC triad of multi-sectoral policies and actions, engaged communities for health promotion, and the delivery of integrated clinical and public health services. Among the key strategies to mitigate the deleterious impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was participatory governance and leadership. The local chief executive collaborated with multisectoral stakeholders and ensured responsive adjustments to population health needs. These included aggressive disease surveillance and the use of digital technologies, efficient supply chain management, health workforce augmentation, robust community engagement, and proactive population outreach for health services. Fast-tracking the HCPN, with primary care providers becoming the first point of contact and navigators in the referral network, contributed to better health outcomes.

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