Belize Hosts First-Ever Public Health ‘Data-thon’

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at strengthening Belize’s health data systems, with the ultimate goal of improving healthcare delivery and saving lives. For two days this week, key health stakeholders from across the country are gathering in Belize City to participate in Belize’s first-ever public health “data-thon.”

The event, held in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), seeks to bring together institutions to examine and streamline the collection, sharing, and use of health data across Belize.

“This is Belize’s first public health data-thon,” said Dr. Andrei Chell, Director of Policy Analysis at the Ministry of Health and Wellness. “We’re working with our partners, both locally and from Washington, to map out where health data is coming from, identify gaps, and ultimately use that information to guide policy and action.”

Dr. Chell said that the data-thon isn’t just about technical improvements. “Better data leads to better decisions, which leads to better health outcomes,” he explained. “The Ministry is aiming to become the steward of health data governance in Belize. As we move into the era of digital health transformation, ensuring the quality and accuracy of