Chilean health macrozones: a preliminary characterization based on quantitative indicators, 2004-2005

Abstract

In Chile, levels and inter-communal disparities in health are measured and monitored by means of a set of indicators. These are grouped and priorized for each of the 28 “area health services” of the country. An inspection of the results shows that it is possible to appreciate patterns of the predominant variables and that these patterns lead us to identify five “Health Macro Zones” in Chile. We present the traits which, through their presence or their absence, have determined the preliminary individualization of each Zone. It is suggested that this overview provides a useful frame for the definition and understanding of the health sector policies, as well as for their linkages with the wider national policies and with those of other relevant sectors.