In a significant step toward improving the healthcare system in Valle del Cauca, Governor Dilian Francisca Toro presented her proposal for the Integrated Comprehensive Services Network, which was endorsed by managers of public and private hospitals and by users of the healthcare system.
The initiative aims to unite the public and private sectors under a coordinated framework involving the EPSs, the departmental government, municipal governments, and both the departmental and municipal health secretariats. The governor highlighted the importance of this network in streamlining referral and counter-referral processes, eliminating administrative barriers such as excessive authorizations that affect patients:
“We want this network to make the referral and counter-referral process much easier, because we already know what the network looks like and that it’s sufficient for referrals, and it’s very important that we stop requesting additional authorizations, which is where patients face the most obstacles,” explained Governor Toro. Juan Carlos Corrales, manager of the Mario Correa Rengifo Departmental Hospital, expressed his support for the proposal, highlighting not only the coordination between the public and private sectors but also the importance of ensuring timely payment by the EPSs:
“This is an important proposal because it will greatly improve the timeliness of service delivery; the private and public sectors will be better coordinated, and given the current situation we are facing, patients will benefit. Furthermore, it is essential that the necessary steps be taken to restructure the system, ensuring timely payment by the EPSs, which is key to maintaining the financial sustainability of healthcare institutions and continuing to provide comprehensive, high-quality care.”
Similarly, Antonio José Tascón, manager of Clínica Versalles, noted that the network will enable equitable care for all patients, regardless of the complexity of their condition or their health insurance provider: “It will be important for the region—and indeed for the country—that a model launched from Valle del Cauca succeeds, as long as we can demonstrate that together, through a public-private partnership, we can create a comprehensive, integrated network that successfully serves its users and their families.”
The Mario Correa Rengifo Departmental Hospital remains committed to providing comprehensive and timely care, in line with the Valle del Cauca Governor’s Office’s strategies to continue strengthening the healthcare system for the benefit of the entire community
Publication date: February 27, 2025
Last modified: February 27, 2025
