Health Metrics Network Board approves grant to Belize

Belize City, January 23 2007 - The Belize proposal for financial support from the Health Metrics Network (HMN) has been approved by the Board of HMN. This grant will fund activities outlined in the work plan and budget in line with the Round 2 guidelines.

The Health Metrics Network, launched at the World Health Assembly in May 2005, was established to help countries and partners meet the challenge of generating data for evidence-based decision-making. It is the first global health partnership that focuses on strengthening health information and statistical systems rather than on a specific disease.

The Health Metrics Network is working to improve health and save lives through stronger health information systems. HMN was founded on the premise that better information means better decision-making - and that means better health for everyone. The partnership brings together users and producers of health data - countries, statistical and health experts, development partners, foundations, and global health initiatives - in a shared endeavor to increase the availability and use of timely, reliable health information through country-led plans to strengthen information systems. HMN partners collaborate to catalyze energies and resources in support of stronger health information systems in developing countries.

HMN benefits from an initial grant of USD 50 million from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and additional contributions from other donors including the Department for International Development (DFID), the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA). The resources available are intended to be used in a catalytic way, to help countries bring together partners across programmes, sectors, and agencies to mobilize in-country resources for strengthening country health information systems in line with the HMN framework.

For more information, please contact Dr. Guillermo Troya, Health Systems and Services Adviser at PAHO/WHO Belize Country Office.