Perspectives on primary healthcare careers across career stages among medical students and primary healthcare providers in China’s Greater Bay Area: a qualitative interview study

Career-stage-specific recruitment strategies are essential to strengthen the PHC workforce. Policies that address early-career and mid-career needs, establish structured development pathways and enhance the societal value of PHC will be critical to building a resilient primary care system. Findings offer practical implications for health system reforms in China and other countries advancing toward Universal Health Coverage.