Work toward this outcome aims to strengthen and transform the organization and management of health services at both the individual and public health levels, with a primary health care (PHC) approach to universal health. Emphasis will be given to ensuring quality and capacity to respond to the diverse needs of all groups and populations, with due attention to groups in conditions of vulnerability. People-, family-, and community-centered health services require an innovative model of care and the development of integrated health services networks to meet the needs and demands of the entire population. Special attention will be given to improving capacity for effective governance of the networks and innovative approaches to improve management, ensuring coordination, communication, and continuity of care.

This outcome must take into consideration the actions needed to overcome access barriers to services, particularly those posed by policies and legislation that need to be adapted to international human rights standards. Attention will be paid to the response capacity of all levels of care, including hospitals, ambulatory specialized services, and emergency services, as well as supporting diagnostic services. Investments to improve response capacity at the first level of care will be a strategic priority, including the use of communication and information technology and a systemic primary health care approach. Additionally, actions will be strengthened to facilitate the empowerment of people and communities so that they are more knowledgeable about their health situation and their rights and responsibilities, which can help them make informed decisions. This includes actions to strengthen the capacity of national authorities to develop mechanisms for social participation, transparency, and accountability, at the territorial level, to fulfill the obligation of the state to protect the health of the population.

The participation and engagement of communities and people will be promoted through training, self-care, and access to information for community members, to enable them to take an active role in actions to address social determinants of health and in health promotion and protection to maintain their health. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening the capacity of health services networks to implement essential public health functions, particularly at the first level of care.

Note: For further details on the scope of this Outcome, please refer to the PAHO Strategic Plan 20-25 Document.