Health agencies urge Americas to expand long term care systems

The Pan American Health Organization and the Inter-American Development Bank are urging countries across the Americas to strengthen their long term care systems, the Jamaica Observer reported on October 29. The two international organizations warned in a joint policy brief that fragmented services and inadequate public funding are forcing families to handle most of the responsibility for individuals who require ongoing assistance. [1]

The joint report highlights that current long term care provisions remain scattered across the region. According to the Jamaica Observer, public financing for care services remains insufficient, leaving households to bear the financial and logistical burden of long term support for relatives. [1]

The Pan American Health Organization serves as a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international health cooperation across the Americas. The institution focuses on evidence-based public health measures, disease prevention, and building resilient health systems. The Inter-American Development Bank, established in 1959 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., provides development financing for social and institutional progress in Latin America and the Caribbean. [2][3][5][6]

The warning comes as international organizations push for policy reforms to ensure health systems can accommodate growing long term care demands. The agencies recommend that governments improve care coordination and expand dedicated public resources to build sustainable support systems for vulnerable populations. [1]