Chile medical outreach programs cut wait times in Arica and Valparaíso

Three dozen doctors from the UC CHRISTUS health network carried out a two‑day dermatology outreach at the Hospital Regional de Arica, providing an estimated 414 consultations, minor surgeries and cryotherapy procedures. The volunteers were financed by the regional health service and praised for bringing specialist care to Chile’s far‑north, with patients such as Ester Vargas expressing relief at finally receiving treatment.

An alliance of the Viña del Mar health service, Desafío Levantemos Chile, Clínica Alemana and the Hospital Adriana Cousiño organised an ultrasound campaign for residents of Quintero, Puchuncaví and Concón. More than 140 exams were performed on‑site, eliminating the need for patients to travel to Hospital Gustavo Fricke. Beneficiaries, including 82‑year‑old Enrique Arpigas, reported immediate clarity on their health issues, while officials highlighted the partnership’s role in clearing waiting lists for soft‑tissue imaging.