The malaria control model in the Department of Antioquia: a case study

Abstract

The malaria control model in the Department of Antioquia. A case study. Objective This study was oriented towards describing the malaria control model within the context of the General Health Social Security System (SGSSS), with the aim of contributing to a better understanding of its current problems. Methods A descriptive and evaluative study of multiple cases was carried out, in which both qualitative and quantitative information was obtained from primary and secondary sources. The collection of information was carried out during September 2003. Results The long-term malaria trends indicate a fall in the mortality caused by malaria and an increase in the morbidity, particularly since 1990. The department has been decentralized, which influences the structure of the malaria control program. Malaria and vector-borne diseases control programs exist both at the department level and in the municipalities where diagnostic and treatment activities are carried out. The control model presents a set of weaknesses and strengths. Conclusions The findings suggest that the control model has some important achievements and also some weaknesses in the sectorial and intersectorial public policies. The program has not managed the disease in an integral and effective way, in its social and political context. On the other hand, the social and community participation has not reached its potential. The malaria control model is fragmented and immersed within the processes, tensions and situations generated by the armed conflict in some agricultural regions, which in turn hampers the operation of the SGSSS.