**Core Concept**
The concept of integrating health services refers to the coordination and organization of healthcare delivery to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. This approach aims to streamline services, reduce fragmentation, and improve health outcomes by promoting collaboration among healthcare providers.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The integration of health services was first proposed by Michael Balint, a Hungarian psychiatrist, in the 1930s. Balint's idea was to create a network of healthcare providers who could work together to provide holistic care to patients. This concept was later developed and expanded upon by others, including the Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978, which emphasized the importance of primary healthcare and intersectoral collaboration.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because Michael Balint is not associated with the development of the concept of health systems planning.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the World Health Organization (WHO) did not propose the concept of integrating health services first.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the Alma-Ata Declaration, while emphasizing the importance of primary healthcare and intersectoral collaboration, did not originate the concept of integrating health services.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The integration of health services is a key strategy for improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. It requires a coordinated approach to care, involving collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and community stakeholders.
**Correct Answer: C. Michael Balint**
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