Oncology actors’ map in Argentina

Abstract

The study identifies and characterizes oncology actors’ map in Argentina and its interactions using qualitative research techniques (secondary source analysis and in-depth interviews with representatives from the Department of Health and the main civil society organizations (CSOs), benchmarks of the sector).

Results show that the Argentine Healthcare system structure does not provide actors with effective incentives, thus hindering the implementation of relevant interventions for cancer control. Health insurers do not have incentives to develop prevention and early detection activities. Besides, PAMI (health insurance for retired people) has no jurisdiction regarding its future target population and therefore, possibilities to develop such activities are limited. Finally, the public subsector takes in fragmentation costs in a decentralized context with coordination defects and financing gaps between provinces.

Confronting this panorama, the National Program for Cancer Control seems to be an adequate answer. However, the program put into practice is showing implementation delays and challenges.

CSOs try to increase their scope and become relevant in teaching, campaigns and treatments, nevertheless with little communication and articulation with the State and among themselves.

Facing a scenario of growing incidence of oncologic diseases, nation-provinces and public-private coordination is essential to achieve allocation equity and efficiency in management.