PAMI fee cuts force clinic service suspensions in Argentine Patagonia

Argentina's public health insurer for retirees, PAMI, has dramatically reduced the fees it pays to physicians, cutting payments by up to 75% over the past two and a half years and setting a flat rate of 2,100 pesos per affiliate per month regardless of the number of visits. The steep reduction has left private clinics in Río Negro, Neuquén, Chubut and La Pampa unable to cover staff, infrastructure and supply costs.

In response, a coalition of clinics in Río Negro announced the suspension of non‑emergency guard consultations for PAMI members, while emergency care will continue. The measure adds to existing limits such as the suspension of certain surgeries. Doctors warned that the cuts threaten the health of retirees, with Dr. Alejandro Ciotta stating, "Lo que está en riesgo es la vida de los jubilados," and noting that many physicians have already quit or are considering leaving the system.