Promoting Equity in Primary Health Care

Equity in access to primary health care services is a central objective of the Swedish health care system. Yet, several reports have illustrated that disparities still exist in the primary health sector, and have increased since the beginning of the 1990s. This commentary analyzes and explains the reasons for continuing inequality in access to and utilization of primary health care services in a welfare system. Social and structural factors, communication, macro-sociological aspects and health care providers’ attitudes and perceptions are discussed as substantial contributors to inequality in access to and utilization of primary health care services. In conclusion, some intervention strategies for promoting more equitable primary health care are suggested