Kelsy Arbiza

Biography and Expertise of Kelsy Arbiza

Dr. Kelsy Arbiza possesses a unique professional profile that combines clinical practice in Family and Community Medicine with strategic health policy and traditional medical systems. Her current role as Advisor on Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine at the Ministry of Public Health of Uruguay places her at the forefront of national efforts to formalize and integrate these practices into the public health framework. Furthermore, her background includes serving as the Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Program, giving her direct insight into managing chronic health conditions.

Her expertise aligns directly with the congress’s Thematic Axis, “Integration of TCIM into Health Systems.” Dr. Arbiza’s work in policy development and capacity building demonstrates a practical approach to embedding evidence-based TCIM within existing healthcare structures. Moreover, her experience with non-communicable diseases connects to the axis “Contributions of TCIM to Global Public Health (Evidence-Based),” showcasing how integrative approaches can address major public health challenges. This work is essential for realizing the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, which emphasizes science and evidence in traditional medicine.

The extensive experience of Kelsy Arbiza in national and regional initiatives makes her a key contributor to the 3rd WCTCIM. Her active participation in the TCIM Network of the Americas underscores her commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across the region. Therefore, her perspective is invaluable for discussions on strengthening global public health through the diverse knowledge systems that the congress aims to highlight.

Professional Career of Kelsy Arbiza

Dr. Kelsy Arbiza‘s professional career is centered on public health leadership and the strategic integration of medical paradigms within Uruguay’s national health system. Her trajectory shows a clear progression from clinical practice to high-level advisory roles, where she influences policy and shapes the future of healthcare delivery. Her work embodies a commitment to enhancing public health outcomes through comprehensive and integrative strategies.

Her roles have provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in public health. This experience is critical for developing effective, sustainable, and culturally sensitive health policies. Each position has built upon the last, solidifying her expertise in health services management and TCIM integration.

• Advisor on Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine, Ministry of Public Health of Uruguay: In her current capacity, Dr. Arbiza guides the Ministry on policies related to TCIM. This role involves developing strategies for the safe and effective integration of these therapies into the national health system, promoting capacity building among health professionals, and ensuring that TCIM practices are evidence-based.
• Former Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Program: This previous role equipped Dr. Kelsy Arbiza with extensive experience in managing some of the most significant public health challenges. She was responsible for developing and implementing programs aimed at preventing and controlling chronic conditions, a field where integrative medicine offers substantial contributions through lifestyle and complementary interventions.

Academic Qualifications

Dr. Kelsy Arbiza’s academic foundation is interdisciplinary, merging conventional medicine with health systems management and traditional practices. This gives her a holistic and pragmatic perspective on healthcare, enabling her to navigate the complexities of integrating diverse medical systems. Her education reflects a commitment to clinical excellence and effective public health administration.

This diverse training allows her to understand health issues from multiple angles, from patient care in a community setting to the logistics of national health services. Her academic background is perfectly suited for her work in TCIM policy and implementation.

• PhD in Health Services Management: This doctoral degree provides Dr. Arbiza with high-level expertise in the organization, financing, and delivery of healthcare. It is a crucial qualification for her role in designing and implementing policies for integrating TCIM into a national health system, ensuring such initiatives are efficient, sustainable, and effective.
• Doctor of Medicine in Family and Community Medicine: Her specialization as a physician in Family and Community Medicine grounds her work in the principles of primary care, patient-centeredness, and a deep understanding of community health needs. This clinical background informs her policy work, ensuring it remains relevant to the realities of healthcare delivery.
• Specialist in Traditional Chinese Medicine: This expertise in a major codified system of traditional medicine gives Kelsy Arbiza direct knowledge of the principles, diagnostics, and therapeutic modalities of TCIM. This allows her to advocate for and guide TCIM integration from a position of authentic understanding and experience.

Knowledge Dissemination and International Collaboration

While specific research publications are not detailed, Dr. Kelsy Arbiza‘s curriculum highlights her active engagement with the international scientific community. Her participation in numerous regional and international scientific congresses and workshops is a core component of her professional activity. This involvement serves as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and staying at the forefront of developments in TCIM and public health.

This commitment to continuous learning and dialogue directly supports her work in capacity building. By engaging with peers from around the world, she contributes to and learns from the global conversation on best practices for TCIM integration. Therefore, these activities are essential for translating international evidence and consensus into effective national policies in Uruguay.

Her presence at such events also aligns with the congress’s focus on “TCIM Education and Training.” As an experienced policymaker and practitioner, Kelsy Arbiza contributes to the professional development of others by sharing insights from her work. This form of knowledge dissemination is crucial for building a competent global workforce capable of implementing integrative health models effectively and safely.

Board and Committee Activities

Dr. Kelsy Arbiza‘s commitment to advancing TCIM is demonstrated by her active membership in key regional and international organizations. These affiliations connect her to a global network of experts, facilitating collaboration and the sharing of best practices. Her involvement in these groups underscores her dedication to specialized fields such as integrative oncology and phytotherapy.

Through these memberships, she contributes to the strategic direction and scientific advancement of TCIM on multiple fronts. This work is fundamental to building a robust, evidence-based, and collaborative global community for integrative health.

• Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine Network of the Americas (Red MTCI Americas): As a member of this vital regional network, Dr. Arbiza collaborates with peers across the Americas to promote TCIM policies, research, and education, strengthening South-South cooperation.
• World Association of Integrative Oncology (WAIO): Her membership in WAIO reflects a specific interest in applying integrative medicine in cancer care. This organization promotes evidence-based complementary therapies to improve the quality of life and outcomes for cancer patients.
• Chinese Anti-Cancer Association (CACA): This affiliation connects Kelsy Arbiza to one of the leading organizations in China focused on cancer research and treatment, offering insights into the integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine in oncology.
• Latin American Society of Phytotherapy (SLAFITO): Membership in SLAFITO highlights her expertise in the scientific study and clinical application of medicinal plants, a cornerstone of many traditional and complementary medicine systems in Latin America.

Connect with Dr. Arbiza

For further details on the academic and professional background of Dr. Kelsy Arbiza, her scholarly contributions can be explored through her official ORCID profile. This registry provides a verified record of her work and professional activities.

ORCID Profile: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1346-7771