Urgent budget review – the third

3 MAYO 2025

Mr. Director:

The recent request from the Undersecretariat of Assistance Networks for regional governments to finance operational expenses of Health services reveals the financial crisis that the Ministry of Health is going through. This measure – borne by the gloss 08 of the Budget Law 2025 – intends to transfer responsibilities to regional governments, whose budget items are not designed to absorb these costs. This not only compromises regional financial autonomy, but also puts the continuity of attention in critical areas such as oncology.

The fact that fundamental expenses such as drugs and equipment maintenance show a clear lack of planning and transparency in the management of public resources destined for health. It is unacceptable that, with a billionaire budget, the Ministry seeks solution in regional governments.

Detailed accountability and a review of the sector budget are urgent. It is imperative that the central level assumes its responsibility and ensure the proper financing of the health system, in a transparent and effective way.

Luis Castillo

Dean

Mario Villalobos

Academic

Faculty of Health Sciences U. Autonomous