Costa Rica's CCSS unveils dental care plan for diabetic patients and launches pilgrimage health operation

The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) announced a new dental strategy aimed at patients with diabetes and hypertension. The program will provide special oral‑health treatment—including plaque cleaning, gum care, radiographs and infection removal—through appointments assigned by general doctors. It will initially roll out in 15 designated health areas across the country, such as Pérez Zeledón, Alajuela Central, Cartago, Limón and Nicoya, emphasizing the link between oral health, blood‑sugar control and cardiovascular risk.

Separately, CCSS will activate a special health operative from 18 July to 2 August to serve the estimated flux of pilgrims traveling to the Basilica of the Angels in Cartago. More than 25 health establishments in Cartago, San José and Alajuela will be organized into four response levels, with complex cases referred to Hospital Maximiliano Peralta and supported by hospitals Calderón Guardia, San Juan de Dios and México. The operation will coordinate with the Red Cross, use a central command center in Cartago, and can call on regional or national hospitals if demand exceeds local capacity.