Characterization of a Medium Complexity Healthcare Institution in Clinical Engineering in Norte de Santander, Colombia

ABSTRACT

Objective To characterize the current state of the clinical engineering in a medium complexity (level 2) health institution in Norte de Santander, a State of Colombia, South America. Methodology Reference information was collected on the availability of health services and medical equipment to determine needs in health technologies based on the analysis of demographic and epidemiological data. Results The study resulted in that the area of influence is big y this have a little installed capacity, the acquisition of biomedical equipment for non-communicable diseases should be prioritized. It was determined that there are needs in terms of biomedical equipments and human resources for the timely development of the provision of services. Discussion Due to the current situation of the pandemic caused by COVID-19, it is evi-dent that the IPS require that the needs be covered to avoid an increase in the cases of infected and assist the sick people, for that reason, an increase in the installed capacity of biomedical equipment and healthcare services is required. Finally, according to the economic aspect of the IPS, there are possible limitations for the acquisition of neces-sary biomedical equipment. This characterization will allow the IPS to determine what are the shortcomings in biomedical equipment, which is essential at this time when a strengthening of the health services provided in the country is required. © 2021, Universidad Nacional de Colombia. All rights reserved.