The government of President Daniel Noboa led a workshop on Apr. 8 in Quito to define the National Health Interoperability Model, supported by the Ministry of Public Health and the Inter-American Development Bank.
The initiative is part of Ecuador’s Digital Health Agenda for 2024-2027 and aims to improve how health data is managed and shared across the country. The goal is to strengthen health services, enhance patient care, and ensure that information can be exchanged both nationally and regionally through efforts like the Pan American Health Route PH4H.
Vice President María José Pinto said that this process is guided by state leadership for immediate change. “this process counts on the leadership of the president of the Republic, Daniel Noboa Azín, who has clearly set out a vision for a modern, integrated, and people-centered health system.” She also thanked international partners for their technical and financial support in reaching this milestone.
Representatives from international organizations attended the event. Ignez Tristao from the Inter-American Development Bank said ongoing support will help bring health services closer to citizens. “Together with PAHO we are promoting the Pan American Digital Health Route so member countries can strengthen priorities and capacities that facilitate integration,” Tristao said.
Sonia Quezada from PAHO highlighted Ecuador’s role in moving toward an integrated system: “digital transformation in health is above all a transformation of management and governance. It’s not just about incorporating technology but building strong institutional frameworks, strengthening capacities, defining standards, and ensuring information becomes a public good serving health,” Quezada said.
Technical meetings called ‘conectatones’ have provided valuable learning opportunities for implementing interoperable systems among regional countries. The Ministry of Public Health outlined plans to use digital tools so clinical information management benefits citizens through more efficient healthcare processes.
