Primary Health Care (PHC) is widely recognised as the cornerstone of equitable and resilient health systems, offering an essential route toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). In Latin America, the persistence of deep social and health inequalities, compounded by the vulnerabilities exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, has highlighted the urgency of sustained PHC investments. Strengthening PHC not only improves access to essential services but also enhances the financial sustainability of health systems and their capacity to respond to future health crises.
This article analyses the policy investments in PHC in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia, three countries that have taken distinct yet complementary paths in advancing their health systems. Using a comparative, qualitative approach, the study investigates how financing strategies, governance structures, and infrastructure renewal shape PHC delivery and equity. By identifying key lessons and challenges, the research provides practical insights and policy recommendations that can inform more inclusive and effective PHC models in Latin America and globally.