PAHO supported the modernization of Suriname’s health system by advancing integrated information systems for health to expand access, improve service delivery, and strengthen evidence informed decision making. 

Through technical guidance and implementation support, telehealth services were introduced in remote Medical Mission facilities, extending access to essential health services for underserved interior communities and reducing geographic and financial barriers to care. In addition, PAHO supported the implementation of a digital death certificate system, significantly improving the completeness, timeliness, and reliability of mortality data and strengthening civil registration and vital statistics systems. Progress toward adoption of the eleventh revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD 11), facilitated by capacity building and high level dialogue on data standards and interoperability, reinforced the foundations for integrated and interoperable health information systems. 

These advances improved the availability and quality of health data for planning, surveillance, and monitoring, while enabling access to services for all. The results contributed to stronger health system governance, better tracking of population health trends, and more timely policy responses, supporting progress toward health for all and reduced disparities.

Photo caption: A telehealth demonstration in the Medical Mission health facility in Powakka. 
Credit: PAHO