People prefer to age at home, in a familiar setting, and surrounded, when possible, by their belongings and closest relatives and friends. This is not only a matter of personal preference. The World Health Organization highlights the importance of the context in determining the effects of aging on health: aging at home increases confidence levels, independence, and … [Read more...] about Aging at home: the preferred option of older adults
The COVID-19 vaccine: when, how, and at what price?
It is no news that we are all looking forward to the COVID-19 vaccine. But to believe that finding one - or several - vaccines will be the panacea and immediately end the pandemic is a mistake. Three fundamental questions explain why the vaccine does not provide an immediate solution. The first and most obvious, the date: when will the vaccine be ready? The second question is … [Read more...] about The COVID-19 vaccine: when, how, and at what price?
Business as Unusual or Back-to-the-Future: COVID-19 and Healthcare System Integration
COVID-19 has upended health systems globally, with uncertain implications for the future of healthcare and beyond. What is certain, however, is that all healthcare systems undoubtedly face a “new normal” in their journey to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) and become more resilient to future stresses. Yet, without also addressing chronic stresses, particularly … [Read more...] about Business as Unusual or Back-to-the-Future: COVID-19 and Healthcare System Integration
Listen to Me, Protect Me, Prepare Me, Support Me, and Care for Me: Health Personnel Need More than Applause
In many countries, large-scale initiatives are under way to pay tribute and thank health personnel for their heroic work in the diagnosis, care, and follow-up of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. These expressions of gratitude and admiration are undoubtedly an important source of motivation for health personnel, but true support goes beyond just applause. Comprehensive … [Read more...] about Listen to Me, Protect Me, Prepare Me, Support Me, and Care for Me: Health Personnel Need More than Applause
Why Digital Tools Could Be Key to Reopening the Region
Deserted parks, shuttered businesses, rush-hour traffic reduced to a trickle: it no longer comes off as hyperbole to say the world has been put on hold. In Latin America and the Caribbean, 13 countries have chosen to enter complete lockdown, and 12 have gone the route of a partial or sector-based quarantine. While measures are constantly evolving in response to changing … [Read more...] about Why Digital Tools Could Be Key to Reopening the Region