Chamber of Commerce Convenes to Discuss Solutions to Challenges to Achieve a High-Reliability Health System for Puerto Rico
The Chamber of Commerce’s annual health and insurance forum will bring together senior officials from federal and local government, along with broad representation from the private sector.
“With this summit, we recognize the urgency of addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Puerto Rico’s health system as soon as possible,” said Julio Ortiz, co-chair of PRHIC 2024 and chair of the CCPR Health Committee. “As part of this year’s event’s focus, we will be discussing issues vital to the healthcare industry such as funding inequity in the Medicare program, and others that also impact health care delivery, social determinants and demographic trends.”
Keynote speakers from the federal government who have been invited and are expected to participate include current Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, who is the first Latino to hold the position in U.S. history, and the administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), where she oversees programs including Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplaces.
The agenda includes a variety of health and insurance-related topics, such as protection against growing cybersecurity hazards, the effect of social isolation on the mental health of the population, how to navigate clinical protocols and emerging therapies in oncology, and a discussion of the Value-Based Care Model.
In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, the summit will explore the intersection of healthcare and innovation. Sessions such as “Beyond Medicine: Social Determinants of Health and the Pursuit of Holistic Wellness” and “Navigating the Nexus: Demystifying Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare,” will delve into innovative approaches to address the social determinants of health and harness the power of artificial intelligence to improve healthcare service delivery. These discussions, moderated by industry experts, will shed light on cutting-edge initiatives that can transform Puerto Rico’s healthcare system.
A critical aspect of moving toward a highly reliable health system for Puerto Rico is the use of data-driven information. The session “Facts and Data: Health Demographics, Population Dynamics, Perspectives, and Circularity by Numbers” will provide attendees with an overview of the demographic trends and population dynamics that shape Puerto Rico’s health care needs. Moderated by Eduardo Zetina, principal of Qinetix Group, LLC, this session will feature representatives from organizations such as IPSOS, Advantage Business Consulting, Galíndez LLC, Medicaid & Medicare Advantage Product Association of PR (MMAPA), MCS Advantage, MMM Healthcare, and Elevance Medicare East.
In addition, a panel focused on the importance of accurate information offered in media coverage of health issues will be held, with the participation of representatives of the main media outlets in Puerto Rico.
For his part, Lcdo. Luis E. Pizarro, co-chair of PRHIC 2024 and president-elect of the CCPR, called on the various components of the healthcare industry, such as insurers, providers, and hospitals, to gather at the event. “Together, we can drive transformational change and shape a future for our health system where care is accessible, equitable, and of the highest quality,” she said. “This summit seeks to illuminate with collaborative efforts, informed discussions, and innovative initiatives the way forward in the face of the myriad challenges we face in achieving that goal.”
Those interested in participating or for more information can contact 787-721-6060, extension 2241 or email fmartinez@camarapr.net. You can also access the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce website: www.camarapr.org.
Media Contact:
Karen Garnik, APR
787.502.2424
E: karen.garnik@gmail.com
