National guidelines for detection, assessment and treatment of COVID-19 patients in primary health care for more effective and evidence base services

Highlights

Primary health care is (PHC) an essential foundation for the global response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Primary care plays a significant role in gatekeeping and clinical responses: identifying and triaging possible COVID-19 cases, making an early diagnosis, helping vulnerable people cope with their anxiety about the virus, and reducing the demand for hospital services. There also is an increasing role of home care for COVID- 19 cases within communities supported by a strong primary care system, which strengthens the trust between health-care workers and communities.  

Primary health care in North Macedonia is responsible for management of the almost 90% of the COVID-19 positive patients. A response built around primary care has also been a more cost-effective measure. Most people with COVID-19 develop mild or uncomplicated illness that can be managed at the primary care level, and the demand for primary care services will escalate during periods of increased transmission.   

However, the country needs national guidelines for detection, assessment and treatment of COVID-19 patients in PHC for more effective and evidence base services.