Prof. Ernesto Garilao addressing the fellows of the ZFF Health Leaders and Managers for the Poor (HLMP) Program
ZFFI-HELPS
Training and Development
The Institute’s Capacity Building Program recognizes the role that leadership plays in replicating best practices in local health systems. As an essential part of the Foundation’s agenda for action, various training and mentorship programs equip health leaders and professionals with the necessary tools to address health inequities.
As part of the two-year Community Health Partnership Program, local chief executives, municipal health officers and socio-civic leaders from the Foundation’s participating municipalities undergo a two-year training program called “Health Leaders for the Poor”. The training involves four modules that are interspersed with field activities that allow the cohort of leaders to apply leadership and management concepts to practical issues in their local government units. Local health leaders also share best practices and are equipped to replicate innovative strategies and programs to better address the need to improve health outcomes in their own localities.
One of the Foundation’s flagship capability building initiatives is the Health Leaders and Managers for the Poor, a fellowship program that is designed for mid- to senior-level executives of the different DOH units all over the country. Started in 2004, the course has produced 142 leaders and managers who are trained to lead their organizations more effectively and implement innovative and responsive health programs and services that positively impact on the health outcomes of their communities. In 2009, the Foundation further refined the HLMP to suit the needs of health profssionals in implementing strategic interventions that will positively impact on the achievement of better health outcomes, especially for the poor.
The Institute also undertakes a special program for youth leaders in health that is designed to harness their talents and ensure long-term involveement in the resolution of health issues. Dubbed the Health Youth Leaders Congress, the event targets student leaders enrolled in medical, nursing, and other applied health fields to widen their academic preparation and assume greater responsibilities in the health professions. This year, more than thirty student leaders from selected schools joined the Congress, becoming part of the Foundation’s network of advocates for health sector reform.