WASHINGTON, (CMC) – Health ministers from the Caribbean are joining their counterparts from other member countries of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) in the United States this week to debate universal coverage and other regional health challenges.

The PAHO 53rd Directing Council meeting has been told that collective action by the regional countries is needed to expand affordable access to health care and to address other hemispheric health challenges.

The five-day meeting will discuss a wide range of issues including childhood obesity, blood safety, disabilities and rehabilitation, mental health, prevention of blindness and visual impairment, health-related law, coordination of humanitarian assistance, and universal access and universal health coverage.

Dominican-born PAHO Director Carissa F Etienne reminded delegates that many key public health achievements in the Americas have been made possible by the collective action of PAHO member countries.

“Our region is on track to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV and congenital syphilis. More than 75 per cent of people living with HIV in the Americas have access to antiretroviral treatment. Our region was the first to eradicate polio, smallpox, measles, and congenital rubella syndrome,” she said.

“This region has always been, and will continue to be, a trail blazer as a result of your collective and committed leadership and your tireless hard work in improving the social conditions and health systems within your countries.”

Etienne urged similar collaboration to advance universal access and universal health coverage, top agenda items for this week’s meeting.

“It is hoped that the decisions and resolutions that emanate from our discussions this week will result in major health benefits for all, and especially those people in most need.”