Belize is among the first countries globally to adopt the global guidance Accelerating Action for Health of Adolescents for development of a National Adolescent Health Strategic Plan. The process included a needs assessment that identified conditions with greatest impact on adolescent health and development. A comprehensive analysis and disaggregation of data contributed to the landscape analysis. An inventory of adolescent health programmes, policies, related legislation, capacity and resources was considered for the evidence-informed prioritization of interventions relevant for a national response.
The process adopted a participatory approach: two national and four district consultations with service providers and 233 adolescents reviewed the situation analysis of adolescent health as well as the first draft strategic plan. The consultations provided the opportunity for inputs from adolescents and services providers at both national and subnational levels.
The multi-agency and multi-sector collaboration was ensured throughout the entire process since planning.
A three-day workshop with adolescents and service providers reviewed and validated the provisions (service packages) for adolescents, targeting priority areas identified earlier for improved adolescent health outcomes in Belize. Another workshop focused on defining the proposed provisions, potential interventions and collaboration opportunities.
The expected adolescent health outcomes reflected in key provisions will help them survive and thrive in a transformative environment in which they can realize their right to enjoy the highest attainable well-being. This human rights-based and life cycle approach enabled the planning of health response and improved investment in human capital development through seamless care, support, and services for positive transition to adulthood.