Representatives from the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare (MSPBS) and the Social Security Institute (IPS) met to discuss strategies for expanding health coverage in Paraguay. The meeting focused on strengthening coordination between the two institutions and optimizing health services nationwide.
Health Minister María Teresa Barán highlighted the importance of the complementary work already underway, citing positive experiences in Itapúa and the joint operation in Ayolas, where both insured and uninsured individuals have access to intensive care units through cooperation between the MSPBS and the IPS. Barán also argued that new hospitals in the interior should be designed under a complementary model from the outset, aiming to rationalize resources and expand coverage.
IPS President Isaías Fretes pointed to the shortage of specialized human resources as one of the main challenges of the health system. According to him, infrastructure and equipment must be accompanied by trained personnel to ensure efficient care. Fretes agreed on the need to intensify coordinated work among public health institutions and develop joint strategies to respond more effectively to the population's needs.
The authorities agreed to continue technical meetings and coordination mechanisms, prioritizing timely and quality access to health services in different regions of the country.