Health care in Colombia

Health care in Colombia (pronunciation: /ˈhɛlθ keər ɪn kəˈlʌmbiə/) refers to the provision of medical services, preventive, curative, and palliative, to the population of Colombia. The health care system in Colombia is a mix of public and private providers, with the government providing basic services and private entities offering specialized care.

Etymology

The term "health care" originates from the Old English words "hǣlþ" meaning "health" and "carian" meaning "to care for". The term "Colombia" is derived from the last name of the explorer Christopher Columbus, who is known in Spanish as Cristóbal Colón.

History

The health care system in Colombia has undergone significant changes over the years. The Law 100 of 1993 established the current system, which is based on a contributory scheme where employers and employees pay into the system, and a subsidized scheme for those unable to pay.

Current System

The current health care system in Colombia is regulated by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection. It is divided into two regimes: the Contributory Regime, for those who can afford to pay, and the Subsidized Regime, for the poorest and most vulnerable population.

Related Terms

Public health: The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals.
Primary health care: Essential health care based on practical, scientifically sound, and socially acceptable methods and technology made universally accessible to individuals and families in the community.
Universal health coverage: Ensuring that all people have access to needed health services (including prevention, promotion, treatment, rehabilitation and palliation) of sufficient quality to be effective while also ensuring that the use of these services does not expose the user to financial hardship.