A historical referent of social security in Colombia

Abstract

Health attention in Colombia has evolved from a hygienist, sectarian and authoritative system to a general, governmental, wide and participating social security system. Realities lived in the history of the country as well as the first rules in the present system creation are exposed as an introductory reference for the description of changes related to this subject during the past century in this republic. The main laws concerning Colombian health services are described in a chronological order. The article also presents the new laws‘modifications and invites to a reflection by health officers about the need for greater knowledge in other subjects that influence health attention.