Primary health care (PHC) is recognized as the cornerstone of resilient health systems, yet financing it remains a persistent challenge in many parts of the world. In Southeast Asia, countries continue to prioritize PHC in policy commitments, but questions remain around how services are funded, how resources are pooled, and whether current purchasing mechanisms can sustain high-quality care. Addressing these gaps is critical for achieving equitable access and better health outcomes across the region.
In a recent article published in SSM – Health Systems (Volume 5, December 2025), Hsu Myat Mon, Aungsumalee Pholpark (P4H Network Coordination Desk), Leonard Thomas Sy Lim, Tsolmongerel Tsilaajav, Valeria de Oliveira Cruz, and Piya Hanvoravongchai present findings from a scoping review of PHC financing and purchasing arrangements in Southeast Asia. Their analysis, based on 171 sources, highlights both common challenges—such as fragmented financial flows and low management capacity—and opportunities for cross-country learning to develop more strategic financing mechanisms.