Persons Caring For Persons: A Public Health Policy Architecturally Presented

Abstract

Background: In 2001 a number of limitations and inconsistencies were noted in the Peruvian national health system. In addition to long-standing structural issues, challenges emerged related to social determinants of health as well as health workers’ attitudes and skills. Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to describe some of the national health policy changes that the Ministry of Health of Peru considered necessary in 2002 to address the prevailing challenges and the particular implementation of such policies. Methods: The formulation of the desired national health policy changes were based on critical readings of the pertinent scientific literature, the collation of national health policy experience, and consultations with Ministry officers and recognized national experts. Results:  The thrust of the national health policy changes, involving the crucial relationship between service providers and users resulting from such process was summarized by the dictum “Persons Caring for Persons” (In Spanish, “Personas que Atendemos Personas”). In order to extend the impact of this policy dictum, it was decided to inscribe it right under the Ministry’s name on the façade or frontispiece of the Ministry’s central building in Lima, the capital of Peru. Discussion: The focus of health care on persons was based on well considered Peruvian and international experience, particularly those maturing at the World Health Organization since the Alma Ata Declaration. The dictum “Persons Caring for Persons” has remained present in national health discussions as well as on the frontispiece of the Ministry’s central building across several changes in national political leadership over the past 13 years. Conclusions: The policy statement “Persons Caring for Persons”, reflects well considered national experience and wisdom, consistent with growing international aspirations. Its endurance over many years calls for renewed efforts to deepen such perspectives towards greater respect for human rights and the full humanization of health care and social life.