Working Papers es una publicación creada por la Escuela de Ciencias de la Salud ECISA, y son documentos preliminares de carácter técnico y/o científico que abordan temáticas relacionadas con la Salud. Los documentos de trabajo son a menudo la base para otros trabajos relacionados y pueden ser citados por evaluaciones realizadas por pares expertos.
PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS IN THE EARLY DETECTION OF BREAST CANCER USING THERMOGRAPHY, A SCOPE REVIEW
Breast cancer is one of the diseases that most affects women worldwide due to its psychosocial impact. Currently, mammography is the most widely used method for early detection, but it is necessary to explore new techniques with greater sensitivity and efficiency. Although multiple studies have been conducted on the use of thermography, this study aims to identify the variables that must be taken into account in the analysis and characterization of thermographic images for the correct early detection of breast cancer. In this document, a scoping review was conducted, and data from the articles were compiled using a documentary matrix. The most relevant results in the synthesis obtained indicate that some physiological factors, such as age, body mass index (BMI), menstrual cycle, increased surface temperature, the existence of thermal asymmetries, angiogenesis, rapid cell metabolism, and breast density, can influence the interpretation of thermographic images. Thermography under regulated conditions and in combination with other methods is a promising tool for strengthening early detection protocols for breast cancer.
Copyright (c) 2025 Documentos de trabajo ECISA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGY AS SUPPORT FOR ADHERENCE TO PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES
In the health sector, technology has emerged as a strategic tool to ensure therapeutic continuity among patients with chronic diseases. In cardiovascular diseases pharmacological adherence remains a major clinical challenge. This study presents a systematic review focused on identifying technological contributions that support adherence to pharmacological treatment in cardiovascular patients. Searches were conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and LILACS databases covering the period 2017–2024, using the PRISMA methodology. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and validated methodological quality scales, eight studies were analyzed. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between technology use and pharmacological adherence. The most used tools were phone calls, text messages, electronic reminders, and mobile applications. The evidence suggests that technology-based interventions promote effective therapeutic control, enhance patient–physician communication, and reduce rates of rehospitalization and cardiovascular mortality.
PHYTOREMEDIATION, A BIOTECHNOLOGICAL TOOL FOR THE PROTECTION AND RECOVERY OF WATER RESOURCES - TOPIC REVIEW
Abstract: Introduction: Phytoremediation as an innovative biotechnological alternative for the decontamination and recovery of water resources, highlighting its potential to address the growing threat of water pollution. Objective: To synthesize the current state of phytoremediation as a technology for the decontamination and recovery of water resources. Methodology: An exhaustive review of the scientific literature was carried out in specialized databases, including Scielo, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, among others. Results: Concise results were obtained on topics related to the main interest, such as the importance of the water resource and the consequences of its contamination; Biotechnology is exposed as a fundamental field to address environmental problems, highlighting phytoremediation as a sustainable and effective biotechnological technique for water decontamination, thus reaching bioremediating plants, which have a high bioremediation potential, including Pistia stratiotes, Salvinia molesta, Eichhornia crassipes, Typha domingensis, etc., capable of absorbing and accumulating organic heavy metals, compounds and other contaminants. Discussion: The advantages of phytoremediation are discussed, such as its low cost, lower environmental impact and the possibility of revegetating degraded areas and, in turn, some limitations are considered, such as the specificity of plants for certain contaminants. Conclusion: In conclusion, phytoremediation is presented as a viable, sustainable and economic alternative for the decontamination and recovery of water resources, its capacity to restore aquatic ecosystems and guarantee the availability of clean water makes it a crucial tool for the construction of a more sustainable future.
USE OF IMMERSIVE VIRTUAL SIMULATORS IN THE LEARNING OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
In recent decades, education in cellular and molecular biology has faced the challenge of facilitating the learning of highly abstract concepts that are difficult to visualize. Immersive virtual reality simulators have emerged as innovative tools to overcome this difficulty by allowing students to interact with three-dimensional environments that represent cellular structures and molecular processes. This document examines the use of these simulators in educational contexts, with an emphasis on higher education and hybrid modalities. It analyzes the pedagogical foundations that support their implementation, as well as the methodologies used to evaluate their impact. The studies reviewed highlight several benefits: increased student motivation and interest, improved understanding and retention of complex concepts, and the development of practical skills in simulated environments. It also identifies significant challenges to their widespread integration, such as technological limitations, the need for teacher training, and the costs associated with their use. En conjunto, los resultados sugieren que los simuladores virtuales inmersivos constituyen una estrategia didáctica eficaz para fortalecer el aprendizaje significativo en ciencias biológicas, al proporcionar experiencias activas, contextualizadas y centradas en el estudiante. Finalmente, se ofrecen recomendaciones para su adopción responsable en programas académicos, subrayando la importancia de acompañar la innovación tecnológica con procesos de formación pedagógica y evaluación continua del impacto en el aprendizaje.
REVIEW OF MENTAL HEALTH REGULATIONS IN COLOMBIA FROM A HUMANIZATION PERSPECTIVE
Analyzing current mental health policies and regulations in Colombia from a humanization perspective is imperative in a context where statistics from the Ministry of Health and Social Protection (2023) show that at least 10% of the population perceives their mental health as poor or very poor, 30% consider it fair, and 66.3% report having experienced some mental health problem. Understanding the extent to which the regulatory framework incorporates or fails to incorporate recognition of dignity, autonomy, and ethical, sociocultural, and differential aspects centered on the individual allows us to highlight the main challenges of this public policy. From a monographic proposal, developed in a networked and interdisciplinary manner, it is possible to address the issue in depth and with rigor, integrating knowledge of public health, social policies, and health administration, and promoting a critical and proactive view of mental health. Methodologically, the proposal is oriented toward a descriptive scope with a mixed approach, which allows for the systematization of policy and regulatory documents from the last five years to contrast them with the conceptual approach of humanization. It is hoped that the results will include the consolidation of reference documents that reflect analysis and reflection on mental health from the perspective of humanization, and that these will be useful for future professionals interested in the area and for the development of institutional policy documents
RESEARCH TRAINING AS A DRIVER FOR FORMULATING APPLIED PROJECTS ON PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK
The purpose of this paper is to share an experience of research training developed within the Bionativo research group, in collaboration with the International Network for Training and Education in Health. Based on a territorial diagnostic exercise, the need to promote applied research aimed at solving real problems was identified, particularly those related to Occupational Health and Safety from a psychosocial risk perspective. The proposed methodology is framed within an applied, field-based, non-experimental, and cross-sectional study, using stratified probabilistic sampling with random selection, designed to estimate the prevalence of burnout syndrome among healthcare workers in the department of Boyacá. The results obtained through this formative process demonstrate the strengthening of research competencies among participants, reflected in their ability to formulate, design, and contextualize projects with territorial relevance. In conclusion, this experience reaffirms formative research as a transformative tool that links academic knowledge with the social and occupational needs of the local context.
ZONAS RURALESVIFER RURAL - OFFLINE MODEL - FIRST FOR WOMEN'S HEALTH IN RURAL AREAS
VIFER Rural is a social–technological innovation designed to expand women’s health education, screening, and tele-orientation in rural areas with limited connectivity. The model combines an offline-first mobile application, plain-language audiovisual content, a guided risk “traffic-light” tool, and a portable kit for basic measurements and screenings, operated by community health promoters and linked to local referral pathways. It addresses three persistent gaps: geographic distance and scarce obstetric/gynecologic services, poor internet access, and sociocultural barriers that hinder timely care. Rather than replacing medical attention, VIFER emphasizes local data capture, deferred synchronization, brief counseling, and appropriate referrals. Methodologically, the paper proposes an action-research pilot: co-design of user flows and culturally adapted content, rapid prototyping of the app, training of promoters, and field evaluation with rural users. Primary indicators include usability (SUS), acceptability, orientation timeliness, number of screenings completed, adherence to scheduled visits, and avoided or better-planned transfers. Ethical safeguards comprise informed consent, privacy-by-design data protection, and minimal-risk ethics review. Expected outcomes include improved access to counseling, strengthened health literacy, and decision-support evidence for costing and scale-up. Grounded in primary health care principles and aligned with Colombia’s 2022–2031 public health plan, VIFER Rural builds on insights from the 2025 Latin American Innovation Rally and advances toward real-world validation and inter-institutional collaboration.
STRENGTHENING RURAL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH: POSTURAL HYGIENE AND MANUAL HANDLING OF LOADS IN CITRUS GROWERS
This study examines the musculoskeletal risks faced by rural citrus-growing communities in the municipalities of Zapatoca and Los Santos, stemming from poor posture and manual handling practices. The main objective is to analyze occupational safety and health conditions surrounding agricultural work and to propose prevention strategies that contribute to establishing good practices in postural hygiene and manual handling of loads among rural workers. A qualitative approach was used, with data collection through a structured online survey, direct observation, and training. The results confirm the existence of inadequate posture and load handling practices in agricultural activities, as well as a lack of awareness of many prevention strategies. However, an interest in training and professional guidance provided in the field was evident, particularly regarding preventive mechanisms that promote the well-being of farmers and increase physical productivity in agricultural work.
HEALTH, HABITS, AND PLANNING IN AMATEUR, E-SPORTS: FOUNDATIONS FOR A COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING MODEL
In recent years, electronic sports (e-sports) have experienced significant growth, particularly among young amateur players in Colombia. However, the lack of professional guidance and formally structured training models has led to various health issues and limited the competitive development of these players. This work is a narrative literature review with an analytical approach, which compiled and organized scientific evidence published between 2018 and 2025 in high-impact databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. The findings indicate that the main health challenges faced by amateur players are associated with sedentary behavior, long hours spent in front of screens, inadequate eating habits, and sleep disturbances. High levels of physical and mental fatigue, as well as a high frequency of injuries in cervical and lumbar regions, were also reported. Regarding performance and sports planning, the reviewed literature highlights the relevance of variables such as strength, mobility, endurance, sustained attention, reaction time, and team cohesion. Nevertheless, limited attention has been given to the role of the coach in the amateur context, creating gaps in tactical planning processes and in the comprehensive support of players. Furthermore, the review reveals a shortage of studies in the Latin American context, particularly in Colombia, underscoring the urgency of designing and validating integral training models that incorporate physical, cognitive, psychological, and social dimensions, in order to enhance performance and promote healthy lifestyles among amateur e-sports players.
SELECTION OF A SPECIAL STUDY IN RADIOLOGY FOR THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF AN ACADEMIC SIMULATOR PROTOTYPE
The present document corresponds to the first phase of the project “Prototype of a Virtual Laboratory for Training in Special Radiological Studies,” whose purpose is to select a special radiological study that will serve as the basis for designing an interactive academic simulator aimed at training radiologic technologists in diagnostic imaging. Special studies in conventional radiology are procedures that use barium- or iodine-based contrast media to visualize internal structures of the human body. Despite the advancement of more sophisticated modalities such as computed tomography (CT), in the context of developing countries these studies remain widely applied due to their economic accessibility and technological availability. Among these procedures, the barium enema retains diagnostic relevance, particularly for the detection and characterization of colorectal cancer.
Special studies with contrascolon radiology by enemal
Steve Rodriguez Guerrero Rodriguez Guerrero
CIPAS TERRITORIAL: PREVENTIVE CULTURE AND ACTIVE LEARNING IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH THROUGH NEW TECHNOLOGIES
The project CIPAS Territorial: Safety and Health through the Proper Use of New Technologies was carried out at the Edgardo Vives Campo School with the participation of teachers and students from the Occupational Health and Safety program at UNAD. Throughout three sessions, a preventive culture was promoted through theoretical and practical activities that integrated risk identification, capacity building in first aid, and emergency simulation. This process fostered meaningful learning related to self-care, risk management, and shared responsibility within educational environments.
EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION IN SELF-CARE, ACTIVE BREAKS, AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY WITH VENDORS AT THE CALIXTO NEIGHBORHOOD MARKET SQUARE IN THE CITY OF NEIVA, HUILA
This document presents the community action applied with the vendors at the Calixto neighborhood Market Square, as a result of the prior participatory diagnosis, which identified needs related to self-care, active breaks, and physical activity. The intervention is framed within the CIPAS Territorial strategy, with the aim of strengthening workers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the prevention of occupational diseases and the promotion of physical well-being. Educational training sessions, practical activities, and stretching routines adapted to the work environment were implemented. The results showed good acceptance and participation from the community, as well as an increase in knowledge about healthy habits. The experience demonstrates the power of community and dialogue as tools to transform work realities. The results demonstrated good community acceptance and participation, as well as an increase in knowledge about healthy habits. The experience shows the power of community and dialogue as tools to transform work realities. The authors of this activity demonstrated that, with proper guidance, it is possible to build healthier and more sustainable environments through collective efforts. The results reflect greater knowledge focused on healthy habits and a better willingness to incorporate daily active break routines.
DIAGNOSIS OF NEEDS IN SELF-CARE, ACTIVE BREAKS, AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG VENDORS AT THE CALIXTO NEIGHBORHOOD MARKETPLACE UNDER THE CIPAS TERRITORIAL STRATEGY
In the Calixto neighborhood, a community diagnostic initiative was carried out under the leadership of CIPAS Territoriales and the School of Health Sciences (ECISA), in collaboration with the vendors of the local marketplace. Through discussion sessions and direct observations, various needs related to the community’s physical and emotional well-being were identified. The working conditions of the vendors revealed an urgent need to promote self-care, implement active breaks, and incorporate physical activity as part of their daily routines. During the process, significant gaps were also identified in access to clear and timely information, as well as to adequate health services. However, the most remarkable aspect was the community’s genuine interest in learning, organizing, and actively participating in health education processes. This collective commitment reflects their desire to transform living conditions and strengthen the social fabric from the ground up. The experience not only made existing problems visible but also created spaces for dialogue and joint construction, where health ceased to be a merely technical issue and became a shared cause.
SOCIAL AND GENDER PERSPECTIVE IN THE WORKPLACE: GENDER-DIFFERENTIATED OCCUPATIONAL RISKS IN MANUFACTURING ENVIRONMENTS
This paper explores the relationship between gender and occupational risks in manufacturing environments, analyzing how biological, social, and cultural differences influence exposure, perception, and risk management. Through a documentary review and an exploratory analysis of reported cases in Latin America, it examines working conditions affecting women, as well as the persistent gaps in labor insertion, harassment prevention, and equal opportunity promotion. Preliminary findings show that the lack of a gender perspective in occupational risk management contributes to women’s underrepresentation in high-risk sectors and to the reduced effectiveness of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) policies. The study seeks to provide theoretical and practical elements to strengthen equity in OSH management systems and promote more inclusive and safe workplaces.
WOMEN AND WORK IN RISK CONTEXTS: A DOCUMENTARY ANALYSIS ON EQUITY AND WORKING CONDITIONS
The participation of women in high-risk labor sectors such as mining, construction, industry, and transportation has increased in recent years, posing new challenges regarding equity, safety, and occupational health. The objective of this study was to analyze the main findings of recent research on women’s labor insertion in these sectors, identifying working conditions, structural barriers, and empowerment strategies that contribute to advancing gender equity. This documentary review included academic articles and institutional reports published between 2020 and 2025 in Latin American contexts, particularly in Chile and Colombia. The results show persistent inequalities in access, remuneration, recognition, and social protection, as well as stereotypes that limit female participation. However, experiences of leadership, collective organization, and resilience highlight the role of women as agents of change. The study concludes that cultural transformation, technical training, and the implementation of gender-sensitive policies are essential to foster inclusive, safe, and sustainable work environments.
CIPAS TERRITORIAL “HEALTH AND LIFE IN COMMUNITY IN HARMONY: AN INTEGRAL APPROACH TO WELL-BEING
The CIPAS Territorial project “Health and Life in Community in Harmony: An Integral Approach to Well-being” was developed as a social and educational intervention strategy promoted by the National Open and Distance University (UNAD) through the School of Health Sciences (ECISA) in the Santa Marta center. Its purpose was to strengthen integral health, coexistence, and emotional well-being within the Ciudad Equidad community, fostering collaboration between academia, social organizations, and community members. Based on the guidelines of the National System of Unadista Social Service (SISSU), the project encouraged cooperation among teachers, students, allied entities, and community leaders, promoting active participation, social cohesion, and citizen empowerment (UNAD, 2024). Through educational workshops, solidarity actions, and artistic activities, including the workshop “Cuidarte through Art”, topics such as self-esteem, mental health, disease prevention, and peaceful coexistence were addressed. Art was highlighted as a pedagogical and therapeutic tool that fosters both individual and collective well-being (Ministry of Health and Social Protection, 2022; WHO, 2023).
THE IMPORTANCE OF PATIENT SAFETY IN THE COLOMBIAN HEALTH
This article offers a systematic analysis of the contemporary panorama of patient safety in the Colombian health system, considering national policies, regulatory frameworks and institutional practices. Within this panorama, it highlights the strengthening of the safety culture, the reporting of adverse events and the convergence with the international experience following the adoption of Colombia's national patient safety policy in 2008. However, persistent challenges remain restricted access to timely care, structural deficiencies, financial pressures and inadequate professional development. The paper draws on peer-reviewed studies and institutional reports published between 2010 and 2024, and highlights medication errors, late diagnoses and suboptimal infection control as critical safety issues. The economic impact is also significant: up to 13% of healthcare spending is related to preventable harm. However, state-of-the-art models, such as the S.A.F.E. model and family-activated emergency teams, show promise in promoting safety. The results highlight the importance of a holistic approach that includes education, technology, and regulation to help improve patient safety throughout the hospital system in Colombia.
Patient Safety, Colombia, Adverse Events, Health Policy, and Hospital Care.
ESTADIOS DE LA PRESCRIPCIÓN DEL EJERCICIO FÍSICO COMO MÉTODO PARA LA PREVENCIÓN Y TRATAMIENTO DE LA DIABETES TIPO 2: UNA PROPUESTA DE INTERVENCIÓN Y CONTROL
Este artículo hace referencia a una propuesta de prevención y control de la diabetes tipo 2, en este sentido esta propuesta enmarca los siguientes estadios: estadio Ia. individuos con factores de riesgo para el desarrollo de diabetes tipo 2. Estadio IIb. Personas con prediabetes que cursan con resistencia a la insulina. Estadio IIIc. Individuos con diabetes mellitus tipo 2, medicados con metformina y no medicados, que cursen con resistencia a la insulina y disfunción mitocondrial como componente metabólico de la enfermedad. Estadio IVd. individuos con complicaciones derivadas de la enfermedad y factores de riesgo cardiovasculares. Dichos estadios estarían relacionados con las variables directas de índice de VO2 máx. (Disfunción mitocondrial), estado cognitivo y de salud mental (depresión, ansiedad, niveles de motivación, estrés), e indirectas de índices de fatiga, índice de calidad de vida, como de influencia en la adherencia al ejercicio físico. En este estudio se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en bases de datos especializadas. Esta revisión bibliográfica ha llevado a los autores a proponer un método de categorización de Estadios de la Prescripción del Ejercicio Físico (EPEF) como conclusión de la literatura revisada, la cual busca unificar los criterios para la prescripción efectiva del ejercicio físico, que sirve de base para la intervención de los factores de riesgo y el control de la diabetes tipo 2, las cuales son útiles como una medida para optimizar los resultados de la intervención en los diferentes estadios de la prescripción del ejercicio físico que se han planteado en esta propuesta.
FUTSAL REFEREES: THE SCIENCE BEHIND THEIR PHYSICAL PREPARATION.
In the profession, refereeing in futsal is not merely about running after the ball and applying the rulebook; it is about immersing oneself in a vertiginous game that demands both physical and mental exertion. The nature of the sport itself characterized by the speed of the ball, the intensity of movement, and the need to make decisions in a matter of seconds puts any referee to the test (Serrano et al., 2021). However, while players are typically the main subject of research studies, the physical fitness of referees and its impact on performance remains a largely unexplored area (Ahmed Hawkar et al., 2017) For this reason, this study proposes a descriptive and correlational design involving futsal referees from various categories, including professional and amateur levels, ranging from municipal and departmental to national and even international officials. Each referee will undergo recognized physical tests, such as the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test, short sprints, an agility and speed test, and the Drop Jump to measure reactive capacity. Furthermore, external load will be recorded using motion tracking devices like GPS and motion analysis via accelerometer during official matches. This approach will allow for a statistical analysis of the relationship between physical condition and referee performance. Initial studies point toward an interesting analytical framework: according to Kresta et al. (2016), futsal referees push themselves to the limit, running, accelerating, decelerating, and repeating movements constantly. It is no coincidence that those who achieve better results in intermittent endurance and agility exhibit less fatigue and greater precision when making decisions during competition (Castillo et al., 2023). It is as if their well-trained body transforms into a silent ally of their judgment. In conclusion, this study seeks to provide an integral evaluation profile based on scientific evidence that supports the physical preparation of futsal referees across all categories and levels. Consequently, validated protocols will not only facilitate their training and load management but will also contribute to elevating the quality of their performance and, ultimately, to the professionalization of a role that is both crucial and often invisible within the sport (FIFA, 2024).
MODELOS PREDICTIVOS DE OBESIDAD EN JÓVENES, I
Obesity, a chronic health condition, has been established as one of the most significant public health problems worldwide. Its impact is extensive, as it not only deteriorates the quality of life of those affected but also leads to a substantial increase in the costs faced by healthcare systems. Currently, the child and adolescent population is considered one of the most vulnerable groups, since obesity can develop at an early age and cause metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychosocial problems throughout the life cycle. In order to develop effective strategies addressing both prevention and early intervention, this challenge requires comprehensive and sustained responses from the health sciences and related disciplines. Recent research indicates that, to address childhood obesity, it is essential to understand in depth its determinants, which include socioeconomic, environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors. This document presents an updated state of the art on obesity in individuals under 18 years of age, highlighting the advances made in the past five years in the development of predictive models. These models have enabled the identification of determinant factors associated with obesity risk, such as eating habits, physical activity, anthropometric measurements, and family and school environments. The early detection of these predictors is essential for guiding evidence-based interventions that contribute to improving the well-being of future generations. At the same time, these strategies aim to have a positive impact on reducing the costs that this condition imposes on public health.
EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT APPROACH TO OPTIMIZE HUMAN TALENT SELECTION
Macromed's human talent selection process has revealed significant deficiencies stemming from the lack of an efficient management approach that allows for adequate planning, execution, and evaluation of the recruitment stages. This situation has led to inappropriate hiring, high staff turnover, decreased productivity, and increased operating costs. Furthermore, the lack of strategic tools and clear criteria for evaluating competencies has limited the effectiveness of the process, directly affecting the quality of the service provided by the organization. To address this problem, the objective of this internship was to design a proposal with an efficient management approach to optimize Macromed's human talent selection process. To this end, a qualitative-descriptive methodology was applied, developing an initial assessment through interviews and document review, followed by a detailed analysis of the collected information, which allowed us to identify the main gaps in the current process. Based on the findings, a proposal was designed that incorporates planning strategies, competency-based assessment, management indicators, and technological tools. This proposal was shared with the heads of the Human Resources department, who provided feedback for its final adjustment. The main results included identifying the structural weaknesses of the process, developing a viable proposal, and obtaining institutional acceptance. Given its practical and adaptable structure, the proposal can be implemented immediately, contributing to strengthening human talent management at Macromed and the continuous improvement of its organizational processes.
STRATEGY FOR IMPROVING THE MEDICAL ACCOUNT AUDIT PROCESS IN AN IPS
This document summarizes the successful experience of a student in the Health Administration program at the National Open and Distance University during her professional internship at a first-level complexity Health Service Provider (IPS) in the city of Cúcuta, Norte de Santander, Colombia. The experience focused on internal auditing of medical accounts, a fundamental tool for ensuring that health insurance providers (IPS) bill correctly for services rendered, in accordance with contractual parameters and current regulations. Therefore, strategies must be adopted to improve the auditing processes of medical accounts at this IPS, thus optimizing the systematic review of sales invoice supporting documents, as a fundamental requirement for supporting the provision of services. The audit revealed a lack of a checklist, an essential pillar for reducing institutional reprocessing, glosses, and returns that directly affect cash flow. The improvement plan intervention was based on direct observation and daily audits to diagnose the institution's glosses, returns, reprocessing, and paper expenditure. Having identified the absence of a checklist as a fundamental strategy, a tool was created as a guide to the supporting documents needed to properly support invoices. The methodology included three phases: identification, design, and execution, which allowed for a significant reduction in findings and generated a result of great institutional value, contributing to a reliable and adequately documented audit
LIVE YOUR RIGHTS, FULFILL YOUR HEALTH DUTIES
In the health sector, knowledge and compliance with user rights and responsibilities are essential to ensuring quality in service delivery and fostering shared responsibility among the system's various stakeholders. This document describes the professional practice experience of a student in the Health Administration program, developed in a first-level Health Service Provider Institution (IPS), located in the city of Cúcuta, Norte de Santander, Colombia. The intervention focused on the management of the User Information and Service System (SIAU), with the aim of strengthening the promotion of rights and responsibilities through education, awareness-raising, outreach, and evaluation strategies. These actions helped strengthen the institutional commitment to humane care, improve service efficiency, and align processes with the guidelines of the General Social Security Health System. The methodology adopted had a qualitative-descriptive approach, supported by the execution and systematic review of theoretical and practical strategies. Among the results obtained, the development of a charter of rights and responsibilities, as well as socio-educational materials, stands out. These materials are designed as key tools for administrative management in health, continuous improvement, user satisfaction, and the promotion of secure communication. Finally, it is emphasized that professional internships in real-life settings represent an essential component of student training and generate significant contributions for institutions by contributing to continuous improvement in the provision of health services.
IMPLEMENTATION OF ICT METHODOLOGIES IN PATIENT SAFETY EDUCATION FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS IN A SECOND-LEVEL IPS IN SINCELEJO, SUCRE
This document presents the successful experience and significant learning obtained by a student in the Health Administration program. The experience was developed in the patient safety program at a secondary-level healthcare provider (IPS) located in the municipality of Sincelejo, department of Sucre, Colombia. The institution's patient safety program aims to prevent risks and errors, and minimize the occurrence of adverse events during medical care. To achieve this, an annual outreach schedule is developed to raise awareness and train internal staff. However, the training methodologies used in previous years were unattractive and had a low impact on information retention and staff engagement. To address this problem, the student focused on optimizing training methodologies. He applied meaningful and participatory learning approaches, integrating information and communication technologies (ICT) and more interactive dynamics. Thanks to these innovations, greater participation and more effective learning were achieved. This experience underscores the importance of implementing new methodologies in patient safety awareness processes. This is crucial to ensure that healthcare personnel are well-prepared to provide safe, high-quality medical care. Ultimately, this experience is relevant because it demonstrates that applying knowledge in real-life scenarios is essential for student learning and for the continuous improvement of safety and quality in healthcare services.
INTELLIGENT MONITORING OF HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PLANS: A SUCCESSFUL EXPERIENCE IN PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE IN HEALTHADMINISTRATION.
This document presents a successful experience derived from the professional practice developed by a student in the Health Administration program at a first-level Health Service Provider (HSP) located in the municipality of Timaná, Huila Department, Colombia. The intervention focuses on document management, addressing files pertaining to the contracting processes, the Information and Customer Service System (SIAU), and financial and accounting management. These areas represent fundamental pillars for the administrative operability of State Social Enterprises (ESE), by ensuring efficient, secure, and organized management of institutional information. During the internship, inefficiencies related to duplication of functions and fragmented execution of administrative activities were identified. In response, the student designed and implemented an improvement plan, structured in four phases: diagnosis, proposal design, strategy implementation, and results evaluation. The implementation of the plan allowed for the optimization of administrative performance in each of the areas addressed, improving workflows, reducing redundancies, and strengthening institutional efficiency. This experience demonstrates the strategic role that document management plays in quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in the healthcare sector. It also highlights how professional internships in real-world settings strengthen students' disciplinary profiles while generating a positive impact on institutions, providing concrete solutions for continuous improvement in the delivery of healthcare services.
QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF HEALTH MANAGEMENT INDICATORS IN COMPLIANCE WITH CURRENT REGULATIONS
This document presents the quantitative analysis of health management indicators in a second-level hospital in Tunja, Boyacá, Colombia. The purpose was to evaluate their compliance with national and departmental standards, focusing on patient safety and the identification of improvement opportunities. The results were compared to national and departmental averages, highlighting critical areas for action and promoting continuous quality improvement.
PROCESS DOCUMENT FOR THE DESIGN OF AN INTERACTIVE USER SATISFACTION SYSTEM IN A SECONDARY CARE INSTITUTION IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF DUITAMA
This document presents a successful experience, which was developed by a student of Professional Practice I of the Health Administration program in a second level of complexity institution located in Duitama, Boyacá. The initiative of this experience arose as a solution to the lack of effective mechanisms for measuring and socializing the user's perception within the institution. The objective of the practice was to design a proposal for an Interactive User Satisfaction System that would allow measuring, analyzing and disseminating key indicators about the hospital experience in a more dynamic way and in real time. The methodology used was of the empirical qualitative type, based on direct observation and institutional analysis, which allowed structuring a technical document with the detailed design of the system. Although the system was not implemented during the internship, a robust conceptual and technical model was developed. Among the expected results are the strengthening of institutional transparency, the continuous improvement of hospital care and the empowerment of the user as an active agent in the evaluation of the service. This proposal represents a significant contribution to health management by integrating technological innovation with citizen participation to improve service quality.
OPTIMIZATION OF BILLING PROCESSES IN A FIRST-LEVEL PUBLIC HEALTHCARE INSTITUTION IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF TELLO, HUILA: EVIDENCE OF CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
This document presents the results of an administrative improvement intervention carried out as part of a professional practicum at the Public Social Enterprise (ESE) of the municipality of Tello, Huila, Colombia. The institution, focused on delivering primary healthcare services to both urban and rural populations, was facing several challenges in its billing processes. These included recurring errors in procedure coding, significant delays in account reconciliation, and weaknesses in the management of billing objections (glosas), all of which hindered effective accounts receivable recovery and threatened the institution’s financial stability. The objective of this initiative was to design and implement an improvement plan aimed at optimizing these processes, using the PHVA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle as the guiding methodological framework. The intervention was structured into four key phases: diagnosis, analysis, design, and implementation. Management tools such as checklists, key performance indicator (KPI) analysis, protocol standardization, partial process automation, and human resource capacity-building were employed.
Relationship between muscle stability and MPO gene polymorphisms: clinical implications in frailty and aging
Frailty and functional decline in older adults are closely linked to the loss of muscle stability. Several studies have suggested that the predisposition to these phenotypes could be modulated by genetic factors, including polymorphisms in the MPO (myeloperoxidase) gene, an enzyme linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. This paper explores the current evidence on the relationship between muscle stability and MPO gene variants, with implications for the early identification of frailty risk and the design of personalized preventive strategies [1,2].
MPO gene, muscle stability, fragility, aging.
CAR-NK cells: an emerging therapy in immuno-oncology
Cellular immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, especially through the use of chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells). However, CAR-modified natural killer (NK) cells are emerging as a promising alternative with significant advantages in safety, feasibility, and clinical applicability. This paper explores the current status of CAR-NK therapy development, their comparison with CAR-T, potential applications in hematological and solid tumors, and the main regulatory and manufacturing challenges facing this technology [1,2].
CAR-NK cells, cell therapies, cancer, inmuno-oncology.