Paraguay Strengthens Cancer Care with New Digital Tool and Systemic Improvements
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Paraguay has significantly bolstered its public health system’s capacity to combat breast cancer, culminating in a closing ceremony that showcased key achievements and a commitment to sustained progress. The initiative, running from 2022 through 2025, focused on improving access to medications and enhancing the overall quality and timeliness of cancer care nationwide.
The project’s successes, presented during a day-long event, centered around four key panels dedicated to discussing advancements, challenges, and strategies for long-term sustainability. A central component of this effort has been a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s oncological infrastructure.
Modernizing Infrastructure and Training Personnel
Significant investments were made in modernizing critical facilities, including pathological anatomy laboratories and areas dedicated to the preparation of cytotoxic drugs. These improvements are designed to enhance both the safety and efficacy of cancer treatments. Crucially, the project also prioritized the training of health personnel, equipping them with the skills necessary to deliver high-quality care. One of the most impactful outcomes has been a demonstrable reduction in diagnosis times, allowing for earlier intervention and improved patient outcomes.
OncoSoft: A New Era of Cancer Patient Management
A cornerstone of the project’s success is the official delivery of OncoSoft software to the Ministry of Public Health. This innovative digital tool is poised to revolutionize cancer patient management in Paraguay. According to a senior official, OncoSoft will “optimize the management, monitoring, and traceability of cancer patients,” while also streamlining the administration of oncological medications. The software’s integration with existing national health information systems promises to create a more cohesive and efficient healthcare ecosystem.
Collaboration Across Sectors
The closing ceremony was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, demonstrating the collaborative nature of this vital initiative. Representing the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare were Juan Marcelo Estigarribia, Chief of Staff; Dr. Gustavo Ortíz, general director of Health Services and Networks; Dr. Ana Collante, director of Specialized Hospitals; Dr. Jabibi Noguera, director of the National Cancer Institute (INCAN); and Lic. Edgar Tullo, general director of Strategic Health Information (DGIES), alongside representatives from various directorates.
The City Cancer Challenge Foundation (C/Can) was represented by Dr. María Fernanda Navarro, regional director for Latin America, and Mr. Diogo de Souza Neves, director of the Readiness for Access to Oncology Medicines Program. Dr. Beatriz Hornburg, director of the Preparation for Access to Breast Cancer Medicines Project in Paraguay, and Lic. Rosa González, advisor in Digital Health, also participated, alongside the local Asunción team, including Dr. Carolina Rojas, project coordinator, and Lic. Olga Policani, coordinator of Digital Developments and Implementations.
Further demonstrating the breadth of support, representatives from AMGEN – Dr. Ponda Motsepe-Ditshego, Vice President, Head of Global Inclusive Health and Impact, and Mr. John Hicks, Global Head of Health Access – were present, as were Dr. Juan Carlos Alvarenga representing Direct Relief, and Norah Giménez from the United Against Cancer Foundation (FUNCA).
Directors and officials from key participating institutions – the National Cancer Institute (INCAN), the National Hospital of Itauguá (HNI), the Hospital de Clínicas (HC-UNA), the San Pablo Hospital (HSP), and the Central Public Health Laboratory (LCAP) – also attended, underscoring the project’s widespread impact.
This collaborative effort signals a significant step forward in Paraguay’s fight against breast cancer, promising more equitable, safe, and timely care for its citizens.
