The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #51212

Herbert Betancourt, MD, MPH, Ministry of Health, El Salvador, Calle Arce No. 827, San Salvador, El Salvador, 503-222-7725, hbetancourt@mspas.gob.sv

We have been working in El Salvador to improve service provision and care, particularly centered on the customer. This initiative began with a pilot project in Nueva Guadalupe during 1995-2002, which evolved from the concept of “health district” developed by WHO. This model takes into account characteristics of the target population, health personnel, and service integration between first and second levels of care. This approach is known as “basic system for integrated health” (SIBASI), and is based on comprehensive health care delivery, decentralized management, accountability, equitable resource allocation and financing, and social participation. This case study describes the background, inputs, methodology used, organizational changes, and epidemiological and quality-related results in the pilot area. Noteworthy results include an improved problem solving capacity between primary and secondary care levels, an increase in preventive care utilization, and improvements in health personnel attitudes and customer satisfaction. Finally, we discuss lessons learned to systematize and replicate the approach nationwide in a progressive fashion.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to recognize key elements of the SIBASI experience in El Salvador, as well as its contribution to health reform.

Keywords: Health Reform, International Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.