Health system transformations following AUGE-GES reform in Valparaiso, Chile
Abstract
Introduction. Health Reform launched in Chile in 2005 has as its main component the AUGE-GES Plan. Although its main purpose has been to improve equity in access to care, this policy has not been evaluated comprehensively. The present study is part of a larger national investigation with the objective to characterize the implementation of health policy from a regional perspective, at the level of health services, hospitals and other agencies, in relation to structural reorganization.
Methodology. The present study employed qualitative research methodology where 42 semi-structured interviews to key informants (local and regional) were conducted, and content analysis was performed. Results: The results show that the implementation of the GES Reform in Valparaiso is highly valued by all stakeholders when compared to the previous situation.
Unfulfilled guarantees and Non-GES waiting lists are both criticized results. GES is perceived as extremely focused public policy. Health teams have been stressed and have focused primarily on curative care, postponing prevention and health promotion. GES is seen as a prioritization strategy that has increased the exclusion of certain groups of the population. The rights of persons are restricted to their rights as consumers.
Conclusion. Based on the present analysis, one can conclude that the AUGE-GES Reform has not fully complied with the objective to promote equitable access to health care.
