Decrease on covid-19 cases allows more surgeries in public hospitals 121521

- Photo via Social Security -

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Published on Wednesday, December 15, 2021
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Social Security reports an increase in the scheduling of surgeries throughout the country due to the decrease in attention to covid cases that allows a gradual recovery in the supply of public medical services.

According to Social Security, in November there was an 88% increase in surgeries, equivalent to 14,477 patients. This figure is close to the operational capacity of the institution in normal conditions before the pandemic.

In one month, this percentage increased 10% compared to the 70% of surgeries achieved in October. November was the highest number of surgeries in a month since the beginning of the pandemic, authorities said.

"This is important because it shows that Social Security can react quickly when there is an opportunity to carry out medical procedures under strict safety guidelines for patients," said Marny Ramos-Rivas, coordinator of the Technical Unit. "This figure shows the ample capacity of the institution to return to a high rate of surgeries procedures."

Health workers are contacting patients who have pending medical processes to reschedule the surgery, authorities said.

In November, public medical services resumed due to the reduction of covid cases.

According to the Ministry of Health, Costa Rica spent $279 million last year for the national health emergency caused by the pandemic.

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What medical services were suspended in your community due to the pandemic? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com