Joint PAHO/Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean report on health, social equity, and changing production patterns in Latin America and the Caribbean

ABSTRACT

Re-examines the topic of health in Latin America and the Caribbean, highlighting the complementary relationship that exists between health and economic development. Its frame of reference is the proposal by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) on social equity and changing production patterns and the policies proposed by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in the area of health in development. Paper proposes a multisectoral approach to improve health conditions and health services to the population. At the same time, it emphasizes the need for innovation in organizing and developing health systems. It proposes to expand health coverage, incorporating those who up to now have been excluded, and to reform health systems and their financing, bolstering effectiveness in resource allocation and microeconomic efficiency in the use of health resources. Finally, it suggests policies aimed at making health an effective example of the fact that rapid advances can be made toward fulfilling the national commitment to social equity. (AU)