Strengthening primary health care: contributions of young professional-led communities of practice

BACKGROUND: Health systems that have strong primary health care at their core have overall better patient outcomes. Primary health care is key to achieving Universal Health Coverage and the broader health-related Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. In 2018, at the launch of the Declaration of Astana, the World Health Organization formed the inaugural Primary Health Care Young Leaders’ Network. OBJECTIVE: This paper aims to demonstrate the scope for young professional-led communities of practice in fostering support systems for young leaders and strengthening the delivery of primary health care at multiple levels. METHODS: A description of the Young Leaders' Network community of practice model is presented, with examples of the work the members are doing, individually and collectively, to advance the science and practice of primary health care. RESULTS: This initiative brought together 21 individuals from across the world, working across disciplines and within an array of socioeconomic contexts to improve primary health care in their respective countries. CONCLUSIONS: This youth-led community of practice is able to share knowledge, evidence and resources to inform clinical and public health activities, policy initiatives, advocacy and research to improve primary health care delivery and health outcomes for communities across the globe.