Curatio International Foundation conducted a case study that examines Georgia’s primary health care (PHC) response to the COVID-19 pandemic from January 2020 to July 2021. The multisectoral actions coordinated by the Interagency Coordination Committee under the Prime Minister’s leadership, effective public health response guided by the Ministry of Health and the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health delayed the virus’s arrival and slowed its spread.

At the time of the epidemic onset the primary care system was not yet ready to serve as a first contact level for patients with suspected infection. However, the system responded with quick transformation and coordinated efforts.  Introduction of the patient pathways with clear roles for the emergency hotline, establishment of online clinics, ambulance service and referral points reduced pressure of the entire health system and prevented its collapse.  

The pandemic also revealed long-standing structural problems with the primary health care, prompting the need for systemic improvements.

Assessing PHC’s response is crucial for future preparedness plans, integrating lessons learned from COVID-19 into ongoing primary care reforms.