Health2040: Action Plan for a Sustainable Outpatient Primary Care in Switzerland
The Health2040 initiative aims to provide scientific foundations for sustainable outpatient primary care in Switzerland.
Building on insights from previous studies that explore the preferences of the population and healthcare personnel regarding the future of outpatient primary care, Health2040 launched a co-creation process in 2023. More than 50 stakeholders from healthcare, social sectors, and civil society developed an action plan with a shared vision for sustainable outpatient primary care in Switzerland.
Using a structured co-creation methodology, two participatory workshops were held: the first workshop developed a care model, and the second focused on creating an action plan for implementing this model. Both workshops were based on a comprehensive literature review of innovative primary care models and insights from previous Health2040 studies to ensure a well-informed and evidence-based discussion.
At the heart of the action plan is an inclusive, patient-centered care network that brings together the healthcare and social sectors along with civil society. This network, called “Gesundheitsnetz für alle (Health Network for All) – pour tous – per tutti”, is tailored to local and regional needs, is digitally supported, and aims to reach all population groups.
Members work together on an equal footing, actively involving patients in decision-making processes and enhancing their health literacy. They offer comprehensive treatment and support, with a strong focus on health promotion and prevention.
The jointly developed action plan identifies three central areas of action to realize the vision of the “Health Network für alle – pour tous – per tutti” by 2040:
- Network-Based Care: The network relies on close collaboration between the healthcare and social sectors as well as civil society, promoting flexible, person-centered healthcare.
- Coordination and Navigation: Effective coordination ensures that all services within the health network are aligned and that patients are guided through the system. A shared data platform supports efficient health promotion, prevention, and care.
- Low-Threshold and Flexible Access: A low-threshold and flexible access system ensures that the health network is accessible to everyone. A multilingual app and locally anchored community spaces provide people with direct support within their living environment.
For a detailed description of the action plan and the model, please see the report.
Institutions: University of Lucerne, Swiss Learning Health System; Interface
Authors: Andreas Balthasar (Senior Project Leader), Sarah Mantwill (Junior Project Leader), Manuela Oetterli (Coordinator), Anna Romanova (Scientific Collaborator), Patricia Käppeli (Scientific Collaborator), Natalie Messerli (Scientific Collaborator)