Healthcare audits reveal irregularities in Chile and Peru

Audits by regional oversight bodies in Chile and Peru have revealed significant irregularities in public healthcare management.

In Chile, the Ñuble Regional Comptroller’s Office identified ongoing deficiencies at the Herminda Martín Clinical Hospital. While some improvements were made regarding patient prioritization and preoperative exam controls, major discrepancies persist between the MLE and SIGTE computer systems used to manage surgical waiting lists. Thousands of records do not match between the two systems. Additionally, many patients remain on waiting lists far exceeding national medians, with some waiting up to 15 years, and 45 deceased individuals were still listed in the SIGTE system as of August 2024.

In Peru, the Comptroller General of the Republic reported that the Tacna Municipal Polyclinic is operating without required sanitary authorization from the Regional Health Directorate (DIRESA). Despite having its administrative file archived due to unresolved issues with infrastructure and equipment, the facility continues to provide medical exams and laboratory services. The clinic currently holds only a municipal operating license and lacks formal categorization, posing risks to service quality and continuity.