[Implementation of the Comprehensive Health Care Policy in Cundinamarca, Colombia 2021].

Abstract

Objective: The Comprehensive Health Care Policy (CHCP) aims to improve the health conditions of the Colombian population to guarantee the right to health. The study's objective was to characterize the implementation of CHCP in the department of Cundinamarca in 2021.

Methods: Qualitative and cross-sectional design based on semi-structured individual ¡nterviews with representatives of health sector entities at the national, departmental, and municipal levels. The information was coded and categorized through thematic analysis.

Results: CHCP and its operational model were readjusted with the arrival of the new national government in 2018. Additionally, in 2020, with the new local leaders, CHCP had to reposition itself in their political agendas. Due to the pandemic, many activities were suspended, including CHCP, because of epidemiological restrictions. The operational model of CHCP lacks guidance to direct its implementation; there are only some specific norms for comprehensive health care routes and integrated health service networks, which facilitated some progress. There is a poor coordination between CHCP and other national and local planning instruments.

Conclusions: The implementation of CHCP in Cundinamarca has a still incipient process, characterized by circumstances at the political (changes in government), epidemiological (Covid-19), and even operational levels (lack of specific guidelines). Progress in policy execution could improve by overcoming some of these circumstances.