The Legislative Assembly has ratified a $235 million loan agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to enhance the country’s public health system. The loan, approved by 58 legislators, will fund the Smart and Comprehensive Health Program (Prosint), which aims to improve health services at all levels of care. The only abstention came from Claudia Ortiz, a deputy from the VAMOS party.
The loan will be used to install a digital healthcare system, upgrade health infrastructure, and build the capacity of healthcare professionals. Prosint will focus on expanding services for chronic disease patients, including those with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, and cancer.
A key element of the program is to bring care for chronic diseases, traditionally handled by second and third-level hospitals, to first-level healthcare centers. This shift will allow for more efficient care and alleviate the burden on higher-level hospitals. The Ministry of Health will manage the initiative, which includes investing in infrastructure for basic, intermediate, and specialized community health units.
One of the key projects under Prosint is the creation of CENT (Centers for the Care of Non-Communicable Diseases), which will provide dedicated care for individuals with chronic conditions, particularly as these diseases increasingly affect younger populations. Seven health facilities will benefit from construction, expansion, remodeling, and equipment to serve these needs.
This loan marks a significant step in improving the country’s health system by providing essential resources to support the growing demand for healthcare services.