SSA, PAHO Discuss Strengthening Health Systems in the America

Mexico’s Minister of Health, David Kershenobich, led a meeting with Jarbas Barbosa da Silva, Director, PAHO, to discuss strategies for improving health systems in the region. The SSA proposed collaboration with PAHO/WHO to jointly tackle health challenges, including the rise of tuberculosis, both human and animal, as well as the ongoing dengue epidemic affecting much of the continent.

Kershenobich emphasized that under President Claudia Sheinbaum’s directive, Mexico is committed to building a universal, free, and high-quality public health system. This process includes strengthening medical care, promoting primary health care, and focusing on prevention. He also stressed the importance of training healthcare personnel in public health, prevention, and primary care. 

Barbosa da Silva praised Mexico’s efforts in advancing toward universal health coverage, noting that many countries in the region struggle with fragmented healthcare systems. He highlighted the significance of initiatives like the “Salud Casa por Casa” program, which aims to improve the prevention and care of chronic non-communicable diseases, particularly among the elderly.

The meeting also revealed a partnership between the World Bank (WB), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and PAHO to support the initiatives outlined by Kershenobich, especially in strengthening primary health care.

Kershenobich and Barbosa da Silva agreed to continue their collaboration to improve health systems across the Americas, benefiting both the regional population and Mexico's citizens.