Exploring the Integration of Family Doctors and Primary Health Services within the Contemporary National Health System

On November 15, 2023, an academic event unfolded at the Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University. The Master of Public Health Science Study Program, in collaboration with the Bali Branch of the Association of Indonesian Family Doctors, organized a compelling guest lecture titled "Role of Family Doctor in Primary Health Care Service and Family Doctor Education Program in Portugal." The lecture, held in the distinguished Prof. Dr. I Goesti Ngoerah Gde Ngoerah room, featured esteemed speakers from the Usf S. Tome Institution, Aces Santo Tirso/Trofa (Portugal), notably Dr. Ana Catarina Coutinho Santos. The event was moderated by dr. Putu Aryani, MIH., Sp.KKLP.


The lecture was marked by the opening remarks from Prof. dr. I Md. Ady Wirawan, MPH., Ph.D., the Deputy Dean for Student Affairs and Information. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Ana for her invaluable contribution to the discourse on health systems and family medicine. Prof. Wirawan underscored the significance of such academic engagements in broadening the horizons of students at the Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, particularly in the realm of primary health care and family medicine.


The lecture unfolded in two sessions: a comprehensive material presentation and an engaging discussion and question-and-answer session. dr. Aryani initiated the discourse by providing insights into the organizational background of primary health care and family doctors and their current role in the national health system. This set the stage for dr. Ana's insightful presentation, delving into the intricate dynamics of primary health care and family medicine.


The audience comprised students and lecturers from the Master of Public Health Science Study Program, as well as the Undergraduate Study Program in Medicine and the Medical Profession at the Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University. This diverse participation underscored the interdisciplinary nature of the event, reinforcing the interconnectedness of theoretical knowledge and practical application.


The significance of this intellectual exchange lies in its role as evidence of ongoing and collaborative learning. The interprofessional engagement showcased in this event is reflective of the symbiotic relationship between theoretical understanding and real-world application. The knowledge imparted during the lecture promises to enhance the students' comprehension of the current landscape of primary health services and family medicine, both nationally and internationally. This heightened awareness serves as a catalyst for informed decision-making and encourages an updated understanding of the prevailing healthcare scenario.