Transferring primary health care practices across the EU: Lessons from CIRCE-JA implementation plans

Abstract Issue/problem Primary Health Care (PHC) systems across Europe face increasing challenges due to ageing populations, chronic diseases, and care fragmentation. Strengthening PHC is essential to ensure resilient, equitable, and people-centred systems. The Joint Action on the transfer of best praCtices In pRimary CarE (CIRCE-JA) addresses this by transferring 6 proven PHC best practices (BPs) to 39 pilot sites in 12 EU Member States, aiming to boost capacity for sustainable healthcare transformation. This approach offers practical insights for other settings undertaking similar innovation transfers. Description of the problem During 2024, initially 41 pilot sites developed tailored implementation plans for their selected BPs. These plans were based on a common methodology and adapted to local systems, resources, and stakeholder needs. They outlined key objectives, teams, timelines, barriers, and sustainability strategies. The project examined how complex PHC models can be effectively adapted and implemented across health systems and what factors support successful and sustainable transfer. Results All sites submitted robust implementation plans aligned with project guidelines. These plans showed strong contextual adaptation while preserving core elements of the original BPs. Outputs included defined implementation teams, target groups, evaluation indicators, and sustainability strategies. Transferring activities included 48 webinars, 22 study visits, and 600+ professionals involved among others. Lessons Strong coordination, adaptable methodologies, and collaborative learning are critical for successful transnational implementation. Tailored support from BP owners, quality control measures, and early planning for sustainability were decisive enablers. These experiences highlight how structured implementation planning can bridge the gap between innovation and practice in PHC and are highly relevant for EU health systems seeking to adopt complex care models. Key messages • Structured transferring activities enable effective adaptation of PHC best practices across countries. • CIRCE-JA offers a replicable model for scaling PHC innovations in Europe.