Fighting the virus: management of the COVID-19 vaccination program in Peru

Abstract

Learning outcomes: Identify the components and associated activities of a crisis facing a nation. Analyze crisis management through program management, according to the principles and performance domains outlined by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Develop strategies for the successful management of a national vaccination program, following the PMI approach. Case overview/synopsis: On March 6, 2020, Peru detected its first case of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Days later, owing to incoming international flights, there was an exponential increase in positive cases, which led to a health-care and economic crisis. In response to this situation, the Peruvian Government found it necessary to implement health measures to prevent the spread of the virus. However, the expected results were not achieved, creating uncertainty in the country.Additionally, in November 2020, a political crisis occurred, resulting in the replacement of the President of the Republic with Manuel Merino, who held office for only one week. Subsequently, Francisco Sagasti assumed the presidency. Months later, in February 2021, another political crisis arose, this time because of the “Vacunagate” scandal. The Minister of Health, Pilar Mazzetti, had to resign amid the scandal, and President Sagasti appointed Oscar Ugarte as the new Minister of Health. The Peruvian Government enacted a series of measures while facing future challenges to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly focusing on developing a Vaccination Program. However, crises in the mentioned areas persisted, presenting significant challenges in managing the pandemic. Dr Ugarte pondered the best strategy for implementing an efficient vaccination program that would inoculate a large percentage of the population in minimal time. He also considered how the efforts of various public and private institutions could be unified to effectively combat COVID-19. Complexity academic level: This case is designed for use in a Public Health Management or Crisis Management course for both undergraduate and graduate students. Depending on the class objectives, the instructor can select and adapt the learning objectives, considering that the case can address topics such as the relationship between the state and society, stakeholder management and risk management. Supplementary material: Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code: CSS 10: Public Sector Management. © 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited.