Bolivia's Chaco Region Takes Steps to Tackle Chronic Illnesses

In the heart of Bolivia's Chaco region, a big effort is underway to improve care for long-term health issues. This isn't just about one place; it's happening in 15 health centers across Camiri and the Guaraní Kereimba Iyaambae Indigenous Autonomous Government (GAIGKI). The goal? To find out what's working and what's not when it comes to treating diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, and mental health problems. The team used a special tool to check 50 different things, like how well the places are run, if they have enough staff, and if they have the right supplies. They did this from February to May 2024. It's all part of a bigger plan to make sure people in these areas get the care they need.So, what did they find? Well, both places have some strengths. Camiri, for example, has good basic equipment and follows up well with patients. GAIGKI, on the other hand, does well with local planning and has more specialized staff. But there are also some gaps, especially in how things are run, how they're paid for, and how information is handled. One of the good things about this project is that it shows how important it is to involve the local community. By working together, they can make sure the care is right for the people who need it. This isn't just about fixing problems; it's about making things better for everyone in the long run.