[Basic package of services based on evidence for primary level of attention: a proposal].
BACKGROUND
Health care research has demonstrated that the primary care level can provide effective services.


OBJECTIVE
To propose a basic package of services for primary health care in medium income countries, based on evidences about its effectiveness.


METHODS
Scientific evidence for the effectiveness of primary care services was first sought through a systematic literature research. Interventions with evidences of effectiveness and appropriate for the Chilean epidemiological profile were selected. The cost in US dollars for a 100,000 inhabitant population was established.


RESULTS
Fourteen programs with evidence of effectiveness were selected: immunizations, infant growth and development surveillance, pregnancy surveillance, family planning, cervical cancer screening, diabetes, hypertension, prevention of stroke, smoking cessation, treatment of problem drinkers, depression, lower respiratory infections in children of less than 6 years old, tuberculosis and palliative care. The total cost was calculated in US$ 36 per person/year.


CONCLUSIONS
This proposal must be flexible, according to local conditions and changes in evidence. It is based in the "new universality" proposed by WHO, that combines a high coverage in key zones with economical realism.
Bedregal
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Departamento de Salud Pública, Universidad Católica de Chile. pbedrega@med.puc.cl
Bosanquet
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Atun
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D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D017048:Health Care Costs; D006289:Health Planning Support / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009313:National Health Programs / Q000191:economics* / Q000458:organization & administration; D011247:Pregnancy; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000191:economics