HPHC Explained

In 2008, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Alma Ata Declaration, (See origins of HPHC) the One Health Organisation has defined the principles of Holistic Primary health Care in light of the lessons learned over the last three decades under the "interim" approach of Selective Primary Health Care. In doing so we have drawn upon not only the Alma Ata Declaration, but also the WHO Constitution, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Geneva Convention, The Ottawa Charter, the Hippocratic Oath, The Lalonde Report and the vast array of wisdom contained in traditional medical systems from around the world. This is due to our firm conviction that Primary Health care was never really given a trial, and that it is even more necessary today than in 1978. Holistic Primary Health Care is a model that draws upon the rich history of thought and experience of international development through-out the twentieth century. The ten principles that summarise it, are an attempt to distill this vast body of experience into a workable system that may be easily utilized by governments, community groups and care workers alike. The concepts it contains are not new, revolutionary or unique, but rather, they are simply arranged in such a way as to better represent the vast legacy of medical knowledge and experience that exists around the globe today. A philosophical meeting point is as much needed today in the west as it is in the developing world, which is why the model is much more deeply influenced by approach than methodology. The One Health Organisation has been formed to develop and enact these principles, but it is hoped that they may be similarly taken up and used by other health care initiatives around the globe. In addition to this, HPHC is an approach that may be applied to a broad range of activities that ultimately impact upon our health outside of the sphere of health care practices alone.

back to main page