Research report: Outcome Evaluation of the Edmundo Granda Ugalde Leaders in International Health Program. 2008-2012

Abstract

[Introduction]. Leaders in the health sector face enormous challenges imposed by the current global environment, which is characterized by increasing complexity and constant change. The growing interdependence among nations, opening of borders and markets, introduction of new technologies, movement of populations, and spread of emerging and reemerging diseases, among other factors, are placing new and urgent demands on States. Leaders are increasingly required to formulate and implement actions that take into account the bilateral and multilateral treaties and agreements that their countries have signed. They must also comply with regional and global goals and mandates in an environment made up of new and emerging actors, structures and alliances that require intersectoral and international action to achieve equitable and collective health outcomes and sustainable development for their populations. Despite the magnitude of these problems, several countries in the Americas have experienced a reduction in the role of the State and a weakening of national health systems and human resources, which limits their response capacity. The decentralization of public health functions has not always been accompanied by training and continuing education for the public health workers responsible for these functions, contributing to a loss of national or international perspective. Additionally, there is often little or no interaction between the ministries of health and foreign affairs, which leaves regulatory bodies poorly equipped to solve health problems. Crises such as those caused by the Zika virus epidemic, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic of 2009, and others require coordinated action and response, both within and among nations, to guarantee the safety of all people. Leaders are needed in different sectors and at all levels to facilitate the development and implementation of policies and programs that are based on sound analysis, effective in their execution, and which reflect the unique situation, culture, and values of their target populations...