Noly Fernández receives PAHO leadership award

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has awarded the 2026 Management and Leadership in Health Services Award to Dr. Noly Fernández, Venezuela’s Vice Minister of Integral Health. The distinction was presented during the 63rd Directing Council of the organization held in Washington, D.C.

The award recognizes Dr. Fernández’s contributions to public health administration, specifically her work regarding indigenous and intercultural health. Key achievements cited include the design of the Indigenous Care and Orientation System, which integrates traditional medicine with academic medical practices, and the creation of an intercultural maternal health model for community care.

Her participation in the event also coincided with the 78th session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Americas.