PAMI financial crisis causes payment delays and hospital pressure in Argentina

The financial situation of the Integral Medical Care Program (PAMI) is causing significant concern across Argentina, leading to payment delays for healthcare providers and increased pressure on the public health system. Reports indicate that public hospital emergency rooms have seen a 52.5% increase in demand as private clinics struggle to continue treating PAMI affiliates due to accumulated debts.

The crisis is affecting multiple provinces, including Buenos Aires, Río Negro, Neuquén, Chubut, La Pampa, and Córdoba. In Jujuy, the delay in fund transfers threatens the continuity of thousands of medical services and food assistance programs for seniors. Additionally, in Libertador General San Martín, organizations providing daily assistance to retirees, such as the Herminio Arrieta National Retirees and Pensioners Association, have reported up to six months of payment arrears, jeopardizing dining services for elderly members.