The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization  hosted a two-day workshop on “Diabetes Quality of Care Project” at the Institute for Technical & Vocational Education & Training Conference Room on Wednesday and Thursday March 10-11, 2010.

The main objective of the workshop was to introduce the Chronic Care Model as a tool to address the quality of care for diabetes in Belize and to develop interventions based on the Chronic Care Model to address issues of quality of care identified in health facilities. 

Topics discussed included: The Chronic Care Model

The role of nutrition on Diabetes Control

The role of education and self care in diabetes control

Assessment of Chronic Illness Care

Strategies for Improving Diabetes Care

Commitments on Interventions for Improving Diabetes

The workshop was facilitated by international and local health care providers.

In related news, the Minister of Health, Hon. Pablo Marin  officially launched the “Belize National Commission on Non-Communicable Diseases” (BCNCD) on March 10, 2010 at the ITVET Conference Room, Belize City.  The formation of the BCNCD is in keeping with the Ministry’s commitment to the health and wellness of the people of Belize.

The roles and functions of the Commission include: Advise the Minister of Health on Non-Communicable Disease (NCDs) policies and legislation.

Ensure that appropriate policies and guidelines are put in place for the prevention and control of NCD risk factors and for the management of NCDs.

Advocate for continuous revision and implementation of legislation embodying the National Policy on NCDs.

Foster a multi-sectoral approach for addressing the NCDs epidemic.

Membership of the BCNCD will comprise of 16 representatives from health related NGOs and other key stakeholders. 

The Commission will be chaired by the Director of Health Services.