The Ministry of Health and Environment of Santa Cruz, led by Minister Ariel Varela, has announced a new measure that will affect foreigners seeking medical care in public health centers in the province. According to the announcement, transitional residents will now be charged for medical services, with fees set at 50% above the hospital nomenclature cost.
Minister Varela explained that the decision to implement this charge stems from the economic deficit being experienced by the health system at both the national and provincial levels. With approximately 1,800 foreign individuals seeking treatment in Santa Cruz hospitals each month, the government aims to prioritize healthcare services for residents of the province.
The resolution outlining the new charges is set to be published in the Official Gazette of the Province within the next 24 hours. Similar measures implemented in Salta resulted in an 80% decrease in the attendance of foreigners at public hospitals. Of the foreigners seeking medical care in Santa Cruz, 70% are Chilean residents. The popular tourist destination of Calafate also attracts temporary visitors in need of medical services, further straining the health system.
While emergencies will continue to be treated without charge, the provincial ministry hopes to save between 15 and 20% of the monthly health budget through the implementation of these fees. The government aims to collect fees promptly to avoid issues like those encountered in Salta, where a Bolivian woman refused to pay for medical care.
Foreigners with precarious residence status in the province will not be subject to these charges. Additionally, the Argentina-Chile Health Cooperation Agreement, which ensures medical assistance without payment for citizens in emergency situations, will remain in effect.
Minister Varela also addressed the challenges inherited by the government in the health sector, including economic difficulties and neglected infrastructure. With a significant cut in funding from the National Government, the province is facing a critical situation in healthcare. The measures being taken are intended to protect and prioritize medical care for the people of Santa Cruz amidst these challenges.