IGSS highlights advances in cancer care at National Congress of Medicine

José Adolfo Flamenco Jau President of the Board of Directors at Instituto Guatemalteco de Seguridad Social
José Adolfo Flamenco Jau President of the Board of Directors at Instituto Guatemalteco de Seguridad Social | Instituto Guatemalteco de Seguridad Social

The Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) participated in the 2025 Public Health Module at the 67th National Congress of Medicine, where it presented its progress in cancer care.

The congress brought together specialists, academic authorities, and representatives from health service institutions to analyze the national situation and strengthen strategies for addressing non-communicable diseases and cancer.

During the event, IGSS highlighted its advancements in providing comprehensive care for cancer patients and ongoing efforts to improve these services. Dr. Francisco Gódinez, Deputy Manager of Health Benefits at IGSS, spoke about measures implemented since the institution’s founding to enhance oncology services.

Dr. Gódinez outlined several key actions: expanding diagnostic and therapeutic capacity in medical-hospital units, opening new specialized services, ongoing training for healthcare personnel, and updating clinical protocols according to international standards.

"The adequate management of resources and inter-institutional coordination allow us to improve the efficiency and timeliness of care. IGSS has 50% of the country's oncologists, who work in modern units," said Dr. Gódinez. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening epidemiological surveillance systems, data collection, and response capabilities to address the sustained increase in oncological diseases.

IGSS stated that it works continuously to ensure comprehensive care that supports beneficiaries from prevention and early detection through treatment, follow-up, and support throughout recovery.

The session concluded with a public interaction segment that reinforced the importance of collaboration among institutions, academia, and the medical community to achieve better health outcomes and move toward more effective and inclusive care.