Developing an integrated primary care model in Slovakia

Networks of primary-level integrated health care centres (IHCC) that co-locate providers and promote interdisciplinary team working are being developed and piloted; piloting of reforms will enable gradual introduction and testing of planned changes; a national-level framework provided the initiative with a strong starting base from which to develop, set clear goals for change and supported the alignment of activities; regional authorities will lead implementation of reforms to allow adaptations based on local needs; the creation of a new agency to provide analysis and implementation support increased the government’s capacity to lead change.