Institutionalizing ethnicity data in health information systems to monitor inequities: the Peru case (2019–2025) within the Latin American landscape

Galán-Rodas E.; Díaz-Cabello J.; Gil-Chávez Y.; Curioso W.H. · Revista del Cuerpo Medico Hospital Nacional Almanzor Aguinaga Asenjo (2026) · DOI: 10.35434/rcmhnaaa.2026.191.2178

Resumen

The registration of the ethnic variable in health information systems is a key tool for making Indigenous, Native, and Afro-descendant populations visible and for ensuring culturally appropriate healthcare. This study analyzes the progress made in recording this variable in the Peruvian Health Information System (HIS MINSA) between 2019 and 2025. Sustained increases are observed both in the number of individuals served and in the number of services provided with recorded ethnic data. Additionally, the Peruvian case is contextualized within the Latin American framework, highlighting regional advances, challenges, and good practices. The article discusses the implemented strategies, improvement factors, and remaining challenges to strengthen health equity in historically excluded populations.

Instituciones: Universidad Continental