The Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) has delivered more than 552 million doses and units of medicines to its rights-holders nationwide. Of these, 91 million medicines were distributed during the COVID-19 emergency in 2020. Thanks to these actions, Social Security recorded savings of 270 million and supplied 118 hospitals. Watch video. https://youtu.be/cR_z7QR9ySw
In Guatemala, millions of doses and supplies of medicines are distributed each year to the population benefiting from the Social Security, representing a significant contribution to the public health system.
In 2016, the Board of Directors of the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) signed an Agreement with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for the acquisition of medicines and medical supplies, as well as for strengthening the Institute's capacities, through the AMEDIGSS project.
Within the framework of this project, 8 international tenders have been held for the purchase of medicines, achieving the acquisition and supply of 552 million doses, with a variety of 685 different types of drugs. At present, with the provision of such inputs, the Institute has guaranteed the supply of 118 medical units at the national level.
Savings of up to 94% have been achieved in the high-rotation medicines for the treatment of chronic diseases by ensuring not only quality, but also transparency in procurement and effective administration.
In recent years, IGSS has improved pharmacovigilance protocols and increased drug quality controls, benefiting 3.2 million affiliates.
Thanks to these results, we contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 3 to prioritize and achieve universal health coverage, in particular protection against financial risks, access to quality essential health services and access to safe, affordable, effective quality medicines and vaccines for everyone. We are also contributing to the promise of leaving no one behind and strengthening health systems on transparency and effectiveness, as well as adding value to governance.
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![Fredy Salazar]()
Fredy Salazar
Communicator UNOPS
