Rev. Gerenc. Polit. Salud, Bogotá (Colombia), 6 (12): 12-30, enero-junio de 2007

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Abstract

Using a methodology which examines the perceptions of stakeholders, including policy-makers,

healthcare professionals and community members, this paper details a preliminary evaluation

of the impact thus far of the Basic Integrated Health System (

Sibasi) program on quality of

healthcare in El Salvador. The paper gives a brief overview of health systems reform in El

Salvador, outlines the logic behind the sibasi and presents theoretical perspectives on quality

in healthcare. The study found that although the sibasi was “good on paper” and had definite

potential, it had not met with a great deal of success. Additionally, existing barriers in the health

system in El Salvador- extreme poverty, ineffective governance, politicization, poor financing,

and contention in the reform process- severely limited the success of the

Sibasi program.