The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) of Ecuador has launched an important course to improve care for people with chronic diseases. This initiative has the support of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and is taught by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and the Foundation for Health Services Research and ManagementThe objective is to strengthen the quality of care in the province of Chimborazo.
The course titled "Improvement Science in Practice: Implementing Projects to Improve the Quality of Care for People with Chronic Diseases" seeks to train a broad group of professionals. This group includes: general practitionersNurses, nutritionists, psychologists, laboratory technicians, and administrative staff. All of them work in the health centers of Chimborazo, one of the provinces most affected by chronic diseases.
This project, which will begin on January 23-24, 2025, will provide effective tools to improve care. Participants will learn how to identify, analyze, and address areas for improvement in chronic disease management. Through this process, a culture of continuous learning will be fostered.
Chimborazo, a key focus in the fight against chronic diseases
Chimborazo has been selected for this project due to its high prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This public health problem has generated a high mortality rate in the region. Health authorities stress the urgent need to implement innovative strategies to combat chronic diseases in the area. This intervention seeks to strengthen the efficiency and effectiveness of local medical services.
Cristina San Román, a health specialist at the IDB, highlighted the importance of this joint effort. “The increase in life expectancy also generates an increase in chronic diseases. This project seeks to improve the quality of health care to face these challenges,” said San Román.
Commitment to improving public health
Luis Reyes, representative of the Zonal Coordination 3 of Health, highlighted the value of continuous training. “Implementing quality improvement principles optimizes resources and reduces variability in processes. In addition, it ensures that practices are based on evidence,” explained Reyes. In this way, the health system is strengthened, promoting a high-quality service for patients.
The MSP reaffirms its commitment to improving public health. Through these strategic alliances, it seeks to offer better quality care and comprehensive management of chronic diseases in Ecuador, especially for the most vulnerable populations.