Chile: Health cuts impact hospitals and primary medical care

Santiago, Chile, May 26 (Prensa Latina) Fiscal cuts to healthcare set off alarms in Chile, where unions and opposition politicians have joined forces to demand the Government reverse a measure that is already impacting the public health system.

May 26, 2026
13:38

Decree 333 from the Finance Ministry ordered a cut of 413 billion pesos (464 million dollars) in that sector, which directly affects more than 80 hospitals, the National Health Fund, and the availability of supplies and medications.

This issue was discussed at a meeting of leaders from the Partido Socialista (Socialist Party-PS), the Communist Party of Chile (PCCh), the Partido Liberal (Liberal Party-PL), the Frente Amplio (Broad Front-FA), and several unions.

PS President Paulina Vodanovic warned, “That decree must be repealed.” “It is already difficult to meet the citizens’ needs with the existing resources.”

Meanwhile, Lautaro Carmona, top leader of the PC, stated that all efforts should be focused on reversing a measure that violates social rights.

Karen Palma, vice president of the National Confederation of Health Workers (FENATS), asserted in statements published by Radio and Diario Universidad de Chile that the cuts are already being felt in healthcare facilities, and this could cost many lives.

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