Curaçao strengthened its capacity to deliver high-quality mental health services at the first level of care by enhancing the skills of general practitioners, who are often the first point of contact for individuals with mental health conditions.  

In partnership with the Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature, and Klinika Capriles, PAHO supported the design and delivery of competency‑based training grounded in the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP). Fourteen general practitioners completed targeted capacity‑building activities during the biennium to improve early detection, clinical management, and follow‑up of common mental health conditions in primary care settings. Technical cooperation emphasized strengthening system integration and referral pathways between primary care providers and the national psychiatric center, promoting a more coordinated and responsive system. This initiative brought together care providers, administrative and technical leaders from various community-based groups, nongovernmental organizations, and foundations to explore opportunities for collaboration.  

By integrating accredited continuing medical education and evidence‑based methodologies, PAHO contributed to a more accessible and person‑centered model of care. Participants were encouraged to continue developing their skills through the PAHO Virtual Campus for Public Health to sustain long‑term capacity gains. This achievement contributes directly to improved access to and quality of mental health services.