In the pursuit of bolstering its healthcare infrastructure, Guatemala is eyeing the success of El Salvador’s National Health Institute (INS) as a model to emulate. The Director of the National Health Institute, Xóchitl Sandoval, recently shared insights and experiences with the Ministry of Health of Guatemala, paving the way for potential collaboration.
The investigative endeavors and significant findings of El Salvador’s INS have garnered attention across the region, prompting Miguel Ángel Garcés, an advisor from Guatemala’s Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, to visit El Salvador. His aim? To gain firsthand knowledge of the institute and explore avenues for its replication back home.
During his visit, Garcés met with INS Director, Xóchitl Sandoval, expressing admiration for the institution’s achievements. “We have witnessed the remarkable work carried out in El Salvador, and it aligns precisely with our aspirations for Guatemala – particularly in advancing medical research,” stated Dr. Garcés.
Highlighting the Ministry of Health’s endeavors to formulate new public policies for healthcare in El Salvador, Garcés emphasized the pivotal role of scientific research. Meanwhile, Sandoval reiterated their commitment to aiding the establishment of a Guatemalan National Health Institute, emphasizing the importance of research and professional development within the medical community.
“We are eager to share our knowledge and experiences. Though our institute is relatively young, established in 2010, we have played a significant role, especially with the support of President Nayib Bukele,” affirmed Director Sandoval.
Both Sandoval and Garcés toured the INS facilities, with the Guatemalan representative getting acquainted with various departments, including the state-of-the-art National Simulation Center, a facility boasting cutting-edge technology developed in collaboration with the University of Cambridge.
As Guatemala endeavors to enhance its healthcare landscape, collaboration with neighboring nations like El Salvador presents a promising avenue for progress, with the INS serving as a beacon of inspiration for future endeavors in medical research and innovation.