Chile recently embarked on a comprehensive evaluation and update of its National Dementia Plan (originally launched in 2017) – a plan that serves as a model for the Latin American region. The Chilean approach highlights the importance of regular evaluations, incorporating expert recommendations, and addressing challenges in accessibility, infrastructure, and training within the healthcare system. This collaborative process, led by the Chilean Ministry of Health, also involved civil society organisations, and demonstrates a practical roadmap for updating national dementia strategies.
The process of evaluation included extensive consultations with key stakeholders, such as policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and international dementia experts. The evaluation focused on assessing progress, identifying gaps, and redefining priorities to enhance the plan’s impact for the years to come and was conducted through regional dialogues and working groups, ensuring the inclusion of diverse perspectives.
ADI was represented in this collaborative process, with ADI Director for the Americas, Diego Aguilar joining an international seminar chaired by María Soledad Martínez, Head of the Division of Disease Prevention and Control of the Ministry of Health of Chile, alongside, ADI Board Member, Rosa Farrés (Mexico), Ricardo Allegri (Argentina), Christopher Butler (UK) to discuss the evaluation of the Chilean National Dementia Plan and shared insights on key aspects such as post-diagnostic care, risk prevention, social awareness, and intersectoral collaboration.
Diego Aguilar said:
This evaluation process in Chile demonstrates the power of collaboration and evidence-based planning in shaping dementia care. By integrating community voices and international expertise, they have set a benchmark for how countries can improve outcomes for people with dementia and their carers.
The evaluation has addressed the following key areas:
1.Access to Diagnosis and Post-Diagnostic Care:
Recommendations emphasised improving diagnostic pathways in primary care and integrating community-based resources. Progress in post-diagnostic care remains a central priority, including better coordination across healthcare levels.
2. Prevention and Risk Reduction:
The plan evaluation stresses the integration of dementia prevention strategies into broader health initiatives targeting chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
3. Awareness and Social Inclusion:
Public campaigns and carer education initiatives are highlighted as essential tools to reduce stigma and promote understanding of dementia within communities.
4. Intersectoral Collaboration:
Strengthening partnerships across sectors, including social services and local governments, was identified as a key mechanism for sustainable care delivery.
The updated plan incorporates a robust monitoring framework with clear indicators to track implementation progress. These include measures of coverage, training, and community engagement.
Chile’s example underscores the importance of continuous evaluation in adapting national dementia strategies to evolving challenges. The structured inclusion of expert recommendations and data-driven planning offers a replicable model for other countries in Latin America and beyond.
As other countries in the region look to develop or refine their dementia strategies, Chile’s approach provides valuable lessons on fostering inclusivity, leveraging expertise, and addressing systemic challenges.