In the Region of the Americas, notable progress has been made, with 18 countries implementing and adapting the EPHF evaluation, assessing capacities and identifying priorities leading to the development of strategic action plans. Findings from 14 of these evaluations are presented in the newly released regional report, Implementation of the EPHF in the Americas: Evaluation and Strengthening of Capacities, published by PAHO. The experiences and results discussed in the report highlight the diverse levels of capacity development across the region, underscoring the need for a regional framework to address challenges and guide strategic action. To this end, the Strategy for Strengthening the Essential Public Health Functions to Accelerate Health System Transformation 2024-2034, approved by Member States in September 2024, aims to guide and support countries in the implementation of policies and measures that promote a comprehensive approach to PHC through a renewed focus on the EPHF.
By prioritizing EPHF, health authorities can drive substantial improvements in both health system capacity and health outcomes across the region. This webinar explored how health leaders, policymakers and related stakeholders can leverage EPHF as a powerful tool for accelerating health system transformation, strengthening capacities, and advancing sustainable development in the Americas.
Dr. Wolfgang Munar spoke of capacity building and evaluations as a key capacity to strengthening health systems and recommended areas for capacity building.