[Childhood cancer in Uruguay: A public-private partnership that delivers equity, science, and resultsCâncer infantil no Uruguai: uma parceria público-privada que promove a equidade, a ciência e os resultados].

Pediatric cancer poses a public health challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Uruguay, a high-income country, has achieved an overall 5-year survival rate of over 79.6% among pediatric patients. The clinical results exceed the 60% target set by the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC). The model is fully aligned with WHO's CureAll strategy, emphasizing universal coverage at no cost to the patient and the integration of psychosocial support. The purpose of this report is to outline the structure of the care model for children and adolescents with cancer in Uruguay, in the context of the GICC guidelines.Uruguay's National Integrated Health System guarantees universal coverage. Under specific legislation, a strategic partnership has been established between the State Health Services Administration (ASSE) and the Pérez Scremini Foundation (FPS) for the management of the national referral center. The FPS provides care for approximately 70% of pediatric cancer patients in partnership with the public children's hospital. It has mixed financing: ASSE contributes approximately 35% of the budget, covering general hospital supplies and services, while the FPS relies on donations to fund the remaining 65%, including home-based care and the administration of benefits. This structure ensures operational independence and the ability to make rapid investments without losing the support and nationwide coverage provided by the public system.
Cancer
Care/Management
Policy
Advocacy

Authors

Nion Nion, Pagés Pagés, Lafluf Lafluf, de Villa de Villa, Batalla Batalla, Silveira Silveira, Chantada Chantada, Castillo Castillo
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