Fifteen Years of Advocacy: The Huila Medical College as a Champion for Public Health
Fifteen years ago, on February 10, 2010, a pivotal moment arrived for healthcare in the huila region of Colombia. Forty-two doctors, spurred by the initiative of Drs.Diego Fernando González, William Murcia, Jonathan Monje, and Diego Camilo Chilatra, established the Medical college of Huila (CMH) within the hernando Moncaleano perdomo University Hospital. This founding marked a commitment to collective action, aiming to elevate the medical profession and safeguard the right to health for all citizens.
Under the leadership of its first president, Dr.Gustavo Portela, the CMH quickly established itself as a proactive force. A key early achievement was the creation of the Huila Medical Ethics Court in 2011,providing a formal body for ethical oversight within the profession and solidifying the College’s role as a representative body.As its inception, the CMH has consistently acted as a vocal advocate during critical public health challenges.during outbreaks of dengue and yellow fever, the College actively demanded robust preventative measures and effective responses from authorities. This proactive stance was further demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the CMH emerged as a crucial source of critical analysis and constructive proposals.The College directly addressed the difficult working conditions faced by healthcare professionals, participating in official committees and challenging perceived inadequacies in local and national health policies. This unwavering commitment earned the CMH recognition from the Neiva Council in 2022, acknowledging its significant contribution to the region.
Today, the CMH represents more than just its members; it serves as a vital partner in broader public health discussions. The institution has championed the importance of mental health, fostered collaboration among medical professionals, and consistently emphasized the link between protecting doctors’ rights and ensuring patients receive safe, dignified care.
The founding of the CMH underscored a fundamental truth: effective healthcare extends beyond individual patient care. It requires organization, participation, and public accountability. By uniting, Huila’s doctors created a collective voice capable of influencing public opinion and shaping health policy.
As Colombia navigates ongoing transformations within its healthcare system, the CMH’s role is increasingly vital. looking ahead, the College faces the challenge of maintaining its independent voice, engaging new generations of doctors, and continuing to build strong relationships with the community. Ultimately, the CMH recognizes that true health is a collective right, achievable onyl through collaborative efforts between the medical community, citizens, and the State.
By: Adonis Tupac Ramírez Cuéllar
adonistupac@gmail.com
X: @Saludempatica
