In El Salvador, innovation is playing a crucial role in closing the health gap for people living with chronic non-communicable diseases in remote communities. A joint United Nations initiative, backed by the Joint SDG Fund, has demonstrated how digital tools can bring quality healthcare closer to those who need it most. By integrating technology into medical services, national institutions have been able to improve detection, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, ensuring more timely and effective support for families across the country.
The programme, “Improving Access to Quality Services for NCDs through Digital Innovation,” has already delivered tangible results. It evaluated user satisfaction with the national Health Information System, issued recommendations to update digital health regulations, and mapped existing technological solutions. It also developed educational materials on NCDs, strengthened teleconsultation and patient monitoring, introduced a Digital Family Health Record, and trained health workers in its application. In addition, smart dashboards were created to visualize health indicators and support better decision-making.
Beyond the technology, the initiative emphasized community involvement by training local leaders, empowering women, and encouraging the use of digital platforms to expand access to care. These people-centered efforts strengthened local capacities and advanced the shared goal of leaving no one behind.
Led by the Ministry of Health of El Salvador and implemented by PAHO/WHO, UNFPA, UNICEF, and ITU, the programme was supported by the European Union and financed through the Joint SDG Fund. During the results presentation, the UN Resident Coordinator reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to help El Salvador build a more inclusive health system for vulnerable populations.
By combining digital innovation, strong partnerships, and community empowerment, the programme directly contributes to the achievement of SDG 3 on good health and well-being and SDG 17 on partnerships for the goals. It stands as a strong example of how technology can transform healthcare delivery, strengthen systems, and improve lives for the future.
