According to WHO, a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre is an institution designated by the Director-General to form part of an international collaborative network carrying out activities in support of the Organization's programs at all levels. A Centre must also participate in the strengthening of country resources, in terms of information, services, research and training, in support of national health development.
Both institutions that show the capacity to fulfill a function or functions relevant to the Organization's program and objectives, and institutions of high scientific and technical standing that have already attained international recognition may qualify for designation as WHO collaborating centres.
Initially, an institution is designated for a term of four years. During this period, its activities are ruled by terms of reference and a work plan, whose progress is assessed annually. At the end of the term, a more thorough assessment is performed and, if appropriate, the Centre is redesignated for a new term.
In its eighth term, the Ribeirão Preto Collaborating Centre's activities are guided by the following Terms of Reference:
TR#1 At PAHO/WHO’s request, the proposed institution will support the Organization’s efforts in strengthening nursing research for the development of human resources and nursing practice in priority areas.
Get to know some activities performed under TR#1
Activity 1.1 - To support PAHO/WHO´s research activities related to 1) Advanced Practice Nursing 2) Availability, and Accessibility of Nursing Professionals in Brazil, and 3) Digital Health in Nursing.
Activity 1.2 - At PAHO/WHO’s request, develop and evaluate a virtual training on research methodology.
TR#2 At PAHO/WHO’s request, the proposed institution will support the Organization’s efforts in strengthening and expanding dissemination of health information and knowledge with emphasis on nursing and health.
Get to know some activities performed under TR#2
Activity 2.1 - To inform PAHO/WHO’s work towards strengthening of editorial policies of the Latin American Nursing journals.
Activity 2.2 - To co-develop scientific articles on digital health, adolescent health, and mental health & health professionals, for publication in selected journals.
TR#3 At PAHO/WHO’s request, the proposed institution will support PAHO/WHO to build nursing capacity through research training.
Get to know some activities performed under TR#3
Activity 3.1 - To identify a set of actions that may facilitate effective implementation of Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) in Primary Health Care in Brazil, for PAHO/WHO’s consideration.
Activity 3.2 - At PAHO/WHO’s request, develop a study to strengthen nursing education doctoral programs in Latin America and the Caribbean.