The future of the health system: from curing to caring

Abstract

The predominance of chronic diseases has forced enormous changes in health systems and services, many of which have not yet been carried out in Argentina, beyond the political discourse in that sense. A responsive PHC, integrated networks of public, private and social security services, and adequate training of health teams are challenges to which health policy has not yet been able to provide a solution. The so-called “radar policy” continues to be the standard response to a changed world, in which the patient is the “pilot” of their journey with the disease most of the time. We have become bogged down in a public management model that cannot face new challenges and does not use the talent and energy of the healthcare network well. The change in model requires a different attitude in the exercise of power and a new leadership profile. The success of the change will depend on the management style of the sector's leaders, who will have to be more humble, recognizing that innovation can come from below, and braver, accepting the variability that this form of action implies, encouraging innovation and local development.