Brief
PAHO Director urges accelerated health action across the Americas
At the 63rd Directing Council, PAHO highlighted gains and warned of emerging health challenges.
By Felo News Desk · Published
At the opening of the 63rd Directing Council in Washington, D.C., PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa said the Americas have made progress in primary health care, immunisation, digital health and disease elimination, but urged accelerated action on persistent and emerging challenges.
Barbosa highlighted successes such as expanded primary care, improved vaccination coverage and advances in digital health, while noting the recent measles resurgence as a reminder of unfinished work. He called for stronger regional cooperation, enhanced surveillance, faster outbreak response, and increased focus on maternal, newborn, child and mental health, as well as addressing the chronic shortage of health workers.
The session also featured remarks from Barbados Health Minister Lisa Cummins, NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya, IDB President Ilan Goldfajn and OAS Permanent Representative Steve Ferrol.
Key facts
- PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa highlighted progress in primary health care, vaccination, digital health and disease elimination across the Americas. (paho.org)
- Barbosa warned that the resurgence of measles shows the need for stronger surveillance and outbreak response. (paho.org)
- He called for accelerated action on maternal, newborn, child and mental health and to address health worker shortages. (paho.org)
Sources
- [1] paho.org — originally reported as “The Americas are making progress in health but must accelerate action on emerging challenges, says PAHO Director”
