Inclusión de Migrantes Venezolanos al Sistema de Salud en el Departamento del Huila, Colombia (2019-2022)

Abstract

The research presented here focuses on the effect of Colombian government actions on the inclusion of Venezuelan migrants in the health system in the department of Huila between 2019 and 2022. A mixed approach was used in this document, with a documentary review, surveys of 51 migrants, interviews with experts, and statistical analysis of secondary data. In addition, the Push and Pull model was used to understand the factors that drive migration and the opportunities that attract migrants to the department of Huila. The results indicate that 57.5% of migrants in Huila are affiliated with the health system, exceeding the national average of 40.7%. However, they still face significant barriers: 48.9% mention problems with documentation, 40.4% lack information on affiliation processes, and 14.9% report discrimination. These difficulties are aggravated by the institutional and budgetary inadequacy of the health system in the department. Although policies such as the Temporary Protection Statute have promoted migratory regularization, their implementation presents limitations due to problems of institutional coordination and lack of regulatory knowledge on the part of local entities and migrants. These government actions have facilitated important advances in the inclusion of Venezuelan migrants, but gaps in coverage, access and quality of health services persist. Administrative barriers, xenophobia and lack of cohesion between institutions hinder effective inclusion. It is recommended to strengthen local capacities through multi-sectoral working groups and the development of comprehensive public policies to guarantee access to health for these migrants, ensuring well-being and optimizing their contribution to the socioeconomic development of Huila and the country.