The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting lives and economies. The World Bank estimates global GDP losses of US$12 trillion over 2020-2021, implying a US$500 million benefit to ending the pandemic just one month sooner. In this context, we need access to a safe and effective vaccine on a faster schedule than ever before achieved for a new disease. This will require significant … [Read more...] about 3 reasons why countries should purchase COVID-19 Vaccines at Risk
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Who takes care of older people in Latin America and the Caribbean?
More than 8 million older people are dependent on long-term care in Latin America and the Caribbean. These people are not able, on their own, to perform at least one basic activity of daily living, such as bathing or showering, eating, using the toilet, dressing, getting around a room, or getting in and out of bed. In this region, care dependence affects 12% of people over … [Read more...] about Who takes care of older people in Latin America and the Caribbean?
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