As we stride deeper into 2023, the remnants of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to affect individuals and healthcare systems worldwide. Among the prevalent health issues, Long COVID stands out as a notable concern. This condition often disrupts individuals' ability to engage with school, work, or relationships for an extended period, necessitating diagnostic and proper rehabilitation support from primary care physicians1.
Moreover, the healthcare sector is facing a myriad of challenges. Financial constraints are particularly daunting, exacerbated by ongoing staffing problems, reduced patient volumes, and rising inflation. The expectation is that wage growth will continue to soar even as hospitals strive to contain labor costs2.
Additionally, the broader public health landscape is grappling with several critical issues, including the mental health crisis, substance abuse, infectious diseases, malnutrition and food insecurity, sexual and reproductive health challenges, environmental pollution, the climate crisis, cancer, and diabetes3.
On a global scale, the need to rebuild routine primary healthcare services is apparent. The onslaught of COVID-19, alongside climate crises and conflicts, has undone years of progress in development and global health. The disruption in access to essential health services calls for a concerted effort to restore and enhance healthcare delivery systems4.
As individuals and communities navigate through these health challenges, the collective aim should be to foster a robust and resilient healthcare infrastructure. This endeavor will not only address the current health issues but also prepare us for any future health emergencies. The road to recovery may be long and arduous, but with coordinated efforts and a shared vision, a healthier tomorrow is within reach.