Silent collapse of primary care: increase in hospitalizations for primary care-sensitive conditions in the post-pandemic period

Abstract

Introduction: Primary Health Care (PHC) plays a central role in the organization of health systems, being responsible for care coordination and disease prevention. In this context, hospitalizations for Primary Care Sensitive Conditions (PCSC) are considered an important indicator of the effectiveness of this level of care. After the COVID-19 pandemic, significant impacts were observed in the organization of health services, which may have influenced the increase in avoidable hospitalizations. Methodology: This study consists of an integrative literature review conducted in scientific databases, including studies published between 2021 and 2025. Descriptors related to Primary Health Care, hospitalizations for primary care sensitive conditions, and COVID-19 were used. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine studies were selected for analysis. Results and discussion: The analyzed studies showed that the pandemic directly affected the organization of health services, resulting in reduced consultations, interruption of chronic disease monitoring, and reorganization of health teams. These factors contributed to the weakening of care continuity and a possible increase in PCSC hospitalizations in the post-pandemic period. Additionally, social inequalities and structural limitations of the health system also influence the behavior of these hospitalizations. Conclusion: Strengthening Primary Health Care is essential to reduce avoidable hospitalizations and improve population health indicators. Strategies aimed at expanding Family Health Strategy coverage and strengthening longitudinal care are fundamental to improving PHC effectiveness.