Primary Health Care in South Korea: Does it exist? How can Health Educators and Health Practitioners improve it?

Abstract

The South Korean plan of action to provide Primary Health Care to its population illustrates a much clearer picture on paper then the image received upon examination of its' current health care system. Through considerable evaluation of published literature the question of Primary Health Care existence in South Korea has been explored. The exploration has evaluated all principles of Primary Health Care which include accessibility, appropriate technology, intersectoral collaboration, public participation and health promotion with the intention of answering the question posed in the title. Suggestions are made for the role of the health care practitioner and health educator to promote a Primary Health Care model; an analysis has revealed key issues which need to be addressed for Primary Health Care to be successful in South Korea.