Empowering Primary Care through PCMCs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

In the serene village of Gabral, nestled among the snow-capped peaks of Swat, stands the Basic Health Unit (BHU), Gabral. This clinic, perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the valley, serves as a lifeline for the local community by offering essential medical services. In the past, primary care facilities in the region faced neglect, lacking basic necessities and medical supplies. However, a groundbreaking initiative called Primary Care Management Committees (PCMCs) was introduced in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to empower these facilities at the grassroots level.

Similar to the successful decentralization model implemented in the education sector through Parent-Teacher Councils (PTCs) in the 1990s, the government extended this framework to healthcare by establishing PCMCs in BHUs and Rural Health Centers (RHCs). These committees, now operational in over 80% of primary care facilities in the province, manage their finances independently, focusing on infrastructure development and service delivery.

By allowing PCMCs to retain a portion of user fee revenue and receive direct government funds, these facilities have gained autonomy in decision-making and resource allocation. This newfound independence has enabled them to address immediate needs like repairs, maintenance, and procurement of essential medicines. While the initial emphasis has been on infrastructure enhancements, there is a growing realization of the importance of investing in medicines and equipment for sustained progress.

The recent prioritization of healthcare by the new government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa presents a promising opportunity to bolster primary care services. By strengthening the role of PCMCs and aligning investments with community requirements, policymakers can drive significant improvements in health outcomes. Recognizing the pivotal role of PCMCs and committing to their enhancement will be crucial in fully realizing the potential of this reform initiative.