Join us on Wednesday, April 15, at 10:00 a.m. (Washington, D.C. time) for the "Launch of the Series Long-Term Care in the Americas: Policy briefs".
Background
In response to rapid population aging and the growing number of people living longer with long-term care needs, Member States of the Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) adopted the Regional Policy on Long-Term Care (2025–2034) to guide countries in strengthening long-term care (LTC) structures.
The policy promotes coordinated governance across sectors, a well-trained and protected care workforce, integrated and person-centered services, sustainable financing, and stronger information systems. These actions aim to expand equitable access to quality long-term care while preventing disability and preserving functional ability throughout the life course.
To support implementation, PAHO is launching a Policy Brief Series on Long-Term Care, developed with partner organizations. The series provides concise, evidence-informed guidance to help countries translate the policy’s priorities into action.
How to participate
DATE: Wednesday, 15 April, 2026
TIME: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. (ET)
REGISTRATION: https://paho-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_k_KLK4qSQvKtLFjkcjDV7g
LANGUAGES: Interpretation will be available in English, Portuguese and Spanish.
About the Policy Briefs
The first three briefs address:
Person-centered long-term care - promoting integrated, rights-based, and culturally responsive long-term care models tailored to individual needs and preferences across the life course.
The roles, rights, and needs of paid and unpaid caregivers - addressing workforce planning, education and training, decent work conditions, support for informal caregivers, and professionalization of care roles.
Governance and financing of long-term care - strengthening intersectoral coordination, regulatory and oversight mechanisms, sustainable financing arrangements, and accountability structures to ensure equitable access to quality LTC services.
The launch webinar will present the key messages from the briefs, highlight their contribution to implementing the Regional LTC Policy, and share perspectives and experiences from across the Americas.
Target audience
National and subnational authorities from health and social protection sectors; Policymakers and planners involved in aging, disability, and long-term care services; Health and social care professionals; Academic and research institutions; Civil society organizations; Representatives of people in need of care and caregivers; International partners and development agencies.
Agenda
10:00 a.m. - 10:05 a.m.
Welcoming Remarks
Dr. James Fitzgerald, Director, Health Systems and Services, PAHO/WHO
10:05 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Series presentation: "Long-Term Care: Policy Briefs Series" - From Policy to Implementation
Dr. Patricia Morsch, Regional Advisor on Healthy Aging, HL/HSS, PAHO/WHO
10:15 a.m. - 10:35 a.m.
Policy Brief 1 – Person-centered long-term care
Background: OECD - Learning from Patient-Reported Indicator Surveys (PaRIS) to person-centered care
From Knowledge to Practice: Fundación ASTUR - Encouraging person-centered care through capacity building
10:35 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Policy Brief 2 – Long-term care providers: The roles, rights, and needs of paid and unpaid caregivers
Background: ILO – Care work and care jobs scenarios: findings from recent ILO reports and work
From Knowledge to Practice: Estado Parana, Brasil – Parana Amigo da Pessoa Idosa Strategy and caregivers support
11:00 a.m. - 11:20 a.m.
Policy Brief 3 – Long-term care governance and financing
Background: IDB – Marco Stampini - Multisectoral Governance and Financing in the Design of Sustainable Long-Term Care
From Knowledge to Practice: Costa Rica Care System – from policy to implementation
11:20 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Closing Remarks
Dr. Suzanne Serruya, Unit Chief, Life Course, Women’s and Children’s Health Unit, PAHO/WHO