Objective:

To strengthen a support and self-help group for chronic patients at IPS-Pasto Especialidades in Nariño, Colombia, in 2023.

Methodology:

A qualitative action-research study with a critical social approach was conducted. A non-probabilistic chain or network sampling method was used to recruit participants. Interviews and surveys were employed for data collection, while the intervention phase incorporated health promotion strategies.

Results:

The study was structured in three phases. The first phase involved a comprehensive assessment of chronic patients’ health needs. The second phase focused on analyzing and identifying strengths and areas for improvement in the support group’s structure. In the third phase, collaborative action plans were developed, defining intervention objectives to consolidate the group through: Reorienting healthcare services to enhance patient support, developing communication strategies to improve information dissemination, encouraging patient participation to foster community engagement, implementing health education initiatives, including an intersectoral educational activity plan.

Conclusion:

The support group was strengthened by integrating a health promotion approach that emphasizes a positive perspective on health. Patients were recognized as capable, sensitive, and autonomous individuals who, with the appropriate tools, can empower themselves to enhance their well-being, human capacities, and sense of purpose. This process was facilitated through individual, collective, and institutional engagement.

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