The community health program of the Aga Khan University in Pakistan is
reviewed from the perspective of historic and present-day development
s in primary health care based in and focused on the community. The ap
proach commonly referred to as community-oriented primary health care
involves the complementary functions of clinical practice and epidemio
logy in partnership with the community. Encouragement and support by g
overnments and other organizations for teaching and research in this f
ield would ensure more adequate preparation of future practitioners an
d health scientists for community-oriented primary health care and wou
ld lead to improved health. Continuity of support for community health
programs is important.