How to ensure quality health care and coverage of uninsured populations

How can a developing country provide free basic health care to poor pregnant mothers and children? How can it expand such a program to provide more comprehensive services to a wider group of beneficiaries? This case study analyzes the “silent revolution” that changed the organizational culture of the health system in Argentina in a way that improved health outcomes, improving the lives of millions of people. The case traces the implementation of Plan Nacer—Argentina’s health coverage program for uninsured pregnant women and children under the age of six—tracking its evolution into the much more comprehensive Programa Sumar. It examines how complex health sector reforms were successfully conceived, designed, and executed, and how the program was implemented in a way that achieved results.