Health Care Law at Paraguay
Health in Paraguay - Wikipedia Paraguay's healthcare system is governed by a combination of foundational laws, recent reforms, and strategic policies aimed at improving public health and healthcare delivery. Here's an overview of the key components:
šļø Foundational Healthcare Legislation
1. Law No. 1.032/96 ā Creation of the National Health System
Enacted on December 30, 1996, this law established Paraguay's National Health System. It outlines the organization and administration of health services, emphasizing equity, quality, efficiency, and social participation. The law also created the National Health Council, responsible for coordinating and monitoring the plans, programs, and activities of public and private health institutions. However, this coordination function is currently assumed by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare (MSPyBS) . (WHO MiNDbank - Ley NĀŗ 1.032/96 que crea el sistema nacional de salud (Law No. 1.032/96 on the creation of the national health system), Paraguay now has a national ethics policy for health-related research - PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization)
2. Law No. 42/01 ā General Health Law
This law, enacted in 2001, serves as the primary legal framework for health policy in Paraguay. It defines health as a fundamental human right and outlines the responsibilities of the state in ensuring access to healthcare services. The law also establishes the legal basis for the operation of healthcare facilities and the provision of medical services .
š Recent Legislative Reforms
1. Mental Health Law (2022)
In 2022, Paraguay enacted a new Mental Health Law, marking a significant shift towards community-based mental health services. The law led to the creation of the National Mental Health Directorate and the establishment of community-based mental health centers. These reforms aim to integrate mental health care into primary health services and reduce reliance on long-term hospitalization . (Transformational change through policy is improving access to and quality of mental health services in Paraguay)
2. National Health Research Ethics Policy (2023)
Launched in August 2024, this policy establishes a governance system for health-related research ethics in Paraguay. It ensures that all health science research conducted in the country adheres to international ethical standards and aligns with the National Constitution and other relevant regulatory frameworks . (Paraguay now has a national ethics policy for health-related research - PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization)
š Pharmaceutical Regulation
In November 2024, Paraguay updated its methodology for regulating the prices of over-the-counter medications. The new approach moves from a mark-up margin system to one based on international price referencing. Additionally, the Medicines Prices Observatory was established to increase transparency regarding medication prices and monitor compliance with price-setting regulations. Initial results indicate substantial price reductions for medications of high public health interest, such as oncology medications . (Paraguay moves towards strengthening medicines price regulation and increasing transparency - PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization)
š§ Mental Health Reform
Paraguay's mental health system has undergone significant reforms, including the enactment of the Mental Health Law in 2022. These reforms focus on decentralizing mental health services, integrating them into primary care through Family Health Units, and establishing community-based mental health centers. The World Health Organization's Special Initiative for Mental Health has supported these efforts by advocating for legal reforms, developing national policies, and transforming the country's main psychiatric hospital into community-based services . (Transformational change through policy is improving access to and quality of mental health services in Paraguay)
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