salta province in Argentina is set to bolster its emergency medical services with the purchase of 34 new ambulances,funded by savings generated from a controversial policy: charging non-resident foreigners for healthcare.
Governor Gustavo Sáenz announced the acquisition during a ceremony swearing in new members of his cabinet. He highlighted the significant reduction in healthcare costs since implementing the tariffing system for foreigners nine months ago. “We managed to spend 2,367 million pesos less only on the Orán Hospital, the one with the greatest demand among citizens of neighboring countries,” Sáenz stated.
Sáenz used the occasion to send a message to President Javier Milei,who has expressed support for similar healthcare policies at the national level.”I am glad that the national government intends to carry out a measure that we took almost 10 months ago: charging foreigners for health services. The result is that attention to foreigners in our province fell by 95%,” he said.
The governor emphasized the positive impact of the policy on local residents. ”Now the people of Salta can have beds, and health tours are over,” he declared, referring to the influx of patients from neighboring bolivia that had previously strained the province’s healthcare system. “This is where we have to cut expenses and optimize resources; not conversely, not in the most sensitive places,” Sáenz added.
Salta, Argentina is bolstering its healthcare system with a significant investment in new ambulances, aiming to improve emergency response times and patient care. The move comes amidst ongoing discussions about healthcare access for foreigners in the region.
Governor Gustavo Sáenz announced the acquisition of 34 new ambulances, a welcome addition to the existing fleet of 93 vehicles. “We are not going to leave the most vulnerable unprotected,” Sáenz stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare for all residents.This statement comes as the governor faces scrutiny over recent cuts to healthcare programs, including the elimination of free medications for retirees.
fourteen of the new ambulances are expected to be operational by the end of the month, while the remaining 20 are currently in the bidding process. This expansion of the ambulance fleet is part of a broader effort by the Sáenz governance to strengthen the province’s healthcare infrastructure.
The issue of healthcare access for foreigners has also been a point of contention.Data from the San Vicente de Paul hospital in Oran reveals a significant drop in foreign patients since february, when new healthcare regulations were implemented. In 2023, the hospital treated 31,561 foreign patients. However, since the new regime took effect, only 77 foreign patients have sought treatment, and all have paid for the services rendered.
The Juan Domingo Perón hospital has also seen a decline in foreign patients as the new regulations were put in place. This shift has sparked debate about the accessibility and affordability of healthcare for non-citizens in Salta.
Argentina is making significant changes to its immigration policies, including charging non-resident foreigners for healthcare services at public hospitals. This move, announced by presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni, marks a shift from the country’s longstanding policy of providing free medical care to all, irrespective of residency status.
The decision has already been implemented in several provinces, including Salta, Jujuy, Mendoza, and Santa Fe.Notably, the province of Buenos Aires has opted out of this new policy, affirming its commitment to providing free healthcare to foreign citizens.
salta, a province bordering Bolivia, has seen a dramatic decrease in healthcare utilization by foreigners since implementing the new policy. “In Tartagal, care fell 67%; while in Salvador Mazza -also near the border with Bolivia- the reduction was 85%,” according to the Salta Government.
To ensure that urgent medical needs are met, the Salta government clarified that provincial health centers will not deny care to foreigners facing life-threatening situations.
“We are going to end free medical care for foreigners as we certainly know it until now. National, provincial or municipal organizations will determine the conditions of access to the health system, including the possibility of charging services to those who do not reside in the country,” Adorni stated.
this shift in policy comes amidst growing concerns about the strain on Argentina’s public healthcare system. Proponents of the change argue that it will help ensure the sustainability of the system and prevent its overuse by non-residents. Critics, however, express concerns about potential barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations and the potential for discrimination.
Salta, Argentina is experiencing a surge in healthcare costs, with prices for common medical services skyrocketing. A recent analysis by Infobae revealed the updated costs for various procedures and treatments as of December 2024, highlighting the financial burden facing patients in the region.
Hospital Stays and Procedures: A Steep Price Tag
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The cost of hospitalization in Salta has become a major concern. A single day in a private room with a bathroom now costs a staggering $93,481. Even a short hospital stay of 2 to 4 hours comes with a price tag of $39,330. Surgical procedures are even more expensive, with an appendectomy costing $647,209 and a cesarean section reaching $505,995.
Diagnostic Tests: Adding to the Financial Strain
Diagnostic tests, essential for accurate diagnoses and treatment plans, are also contributing to the rising healthcare costs.A gynecological ultrasound now costs $10,332,while a liver ultrasound is priced at $12,100. Basic X-rays, such as a chest X-ray, cost $7,886, and an abdominal X-ray is $7,478.
Laboratory Tests: Not Immune to the Trend
Even routine laboratory tests are becoming increasingly expensive. A basic blood panel, including tests for hemoglobin, urea, and other essential markers, now costs $25,500.
“We are deeply concerned about the rising cost of healthcare in Salta,” said Governor Gustavo Sáenz. “We are committed to finding solutions to ensure that all residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare.”
the provincial government has implemented measures to address the issue, and the national government has followed suit by replicating some of these initiatives. However, the affordability of healthcare remains a pressing concern for many in Salta.
## Expert Interview: Salta’s Ambulances and the Cost of Healthcare for Foreigners
**World-Today-News.com** sat down with Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a health policy expert at the University of Buenos Aires, to discuss the recent news of Salta Province’s purchase of new ambulances funded by a controversial decision to charge non-resident foreigners for healthcare.
**World-Today-News:** Dr. Rodriguez, Salta Province Governor Gustavo Sáenz claims that charging non-resident foreigners for healthcare has resulted in notable cost savings, allowing for investments like the new ambulance fleet. What are yoru thoughts on this approach?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** The situation in Salta is complex and raises important ethical and logistical questions. While it’s true that implementing a fee for foreign patients can generate revenue, it’s crucial to consider the broader implications.
Firstly, healthcare is a fundamental human right, and access should not be determined by residency status. Implementing such policies can create a two-tiered system,disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations,including migrants and refugees.
Secondly, the potential reduction in the number of foreign patients seeking care might seem like a cost-saving measure. Though, it could lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment for serious conditions, ultimately increasing overall healthcare costs in the long run.
the implementation of such policies can strain diplomatic relations with neighboring countries and create social tensions within communities.
**World-Today-News:** You mentioned ethical concerns. How do these policies impact the local population?
**Dr.Rodriguez:** the argument for these policies frequently enough hinges on the idea that they free up resources for local residents. While it’s understandable that governments prioritize their citizens’ well-being, it shouldn’t come at the expense of others in need. A healthcare system should be inclusive and sustainable for all.
Furthermore, the influx of patients from neighboring countries often highlights disparities in healthcare access and the need for regional cooperation and investment in healthcare infrastructure across borders.
**World-Today-News:** President Milei has expressed support for similar policies at the national level. What are the potential wider implications for Argentina?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** If implemented nationally, these policies could have a significant impact on Argentina’s image and its commitment to human rights.They could also strain relationships with neighboring countries and potentially create a humanitarian crisis if access to essential healthcare is restricted.
It’s crucial for Argentina to find a more equitable and sustainable solution that ensures access to quality healthcare for all while addressing the concerns of its citizens. This may involve regional collaborations, increased investment in public health, and exploring innovative financing mechanisms.
**World-Today-news:** Thank you, Dr.Rodriguez, for sharing your valuable insights on this complex issue.
