The 53rd Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) ended on 3rd October, following a week of discussions and decisions about major public health issues in the Region of the Americas.

“The debate has been lively and enriching as we sought to reach consensus with respect and sensitivity on how to collectively address the pressing public health challenges that confront our countries and our region", said PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne.

"One area stands out above all for its historic significance and for the impact it promises to have on health in our Region. That is the goal of access to universal health and universal health coverage”, she noted.

Among the results of this week’s deliberations was a series of strategies and plans of action designed to reduce childhood obesity, expand mental health care, promote the rights of and better care for people with disabilities, improve the safety and sufficiency of blood supplies, prevent avoidable blindness, and enhance coordination of humanitarian assistance during emergencies and disasters.

Read press release here