Stigma and psychiatric care in Latin America: its inclusion on the universal health coverage agenda

Abstract

In 2014, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) approved Resolution CP53.R14, which aimed to provide a framework for universal access to health and universal health coverage. It sets the stage for the inclusion of psychiatric practice within the provision of universal healthcare and highlights the fight against stigma. We propose to concentrate our efforts on changing the model of medical management. To that end, we are promoting the inclusion of mental health patients within the daily routine of primary care centres, thus allowing them to interact with other users of health services on a regular basis.