Hey everyone! Can’t believe this is already our third day here in Buenos Aires! The day started with a lecture from the Deputy Minister of Health of CABA, Daniel Ferrante. He discussed with us the roles of the ministry. Also, some of its main challenges and future goals. One of the main challenges he mentioned was the lack of integrated primary health care in the city. Here in Argentina, primary health care is perceived by many as a threat to quality care and management resources. However, the ministry recognizes the critical role of primary health care in providing preventive care and overall improving health outcomes for everyone. So, strengthening the primary healthcare sector in the city is definitely something that the ministry will continue to focus on.
After taking a lunch break, we drove to meet Louis Scervino, current director of the Obra Social de Obras Sanitarias. Dr. Scervino clarified majority of my understanding of the complex social security sector. Basically, the social security only provides coverage to workers who contribute to the social security system, including armed forces and retirees. This sector plays a significant role in providing healthcare services to a large portion of the population.
Workers and organized labor are significant stakeholders in the social security system for Argentina’s healthcare. Labor unions are crucial in advocating for workers’ rights and negotiating labor agreements, including benefits like healthcare coverage. Laborers themselves are also significant beneficiaries of the social system. Laborers provide the money to social security. Without this money from the laborers, labor unions would not be able to provide healthcare services to beneficiaries.
However, this system also faces its challenges. Because the social security sector is directly related to the work of the people and the overall economy, it can be affected by fluctuations in employment and salary wages. In times of uncertain economic conditions or high employment, fewer people may be able to contribute to the social security system, which could result in lower funding for healthcare services.
After our lectures, we walked around La Boca, mostly known for being home to the Boca Juniors, one of the two largest soccer teams in Argentina. I was fascinated by its colorful buildings and vibrant culture. Here, we walked around the streets and did some shopping in nearby stores. Then, we headed to San Telmo, and ended off the day in Plaza the Mayo. I had a really great time today and I learned many insightful information that will contribute to my overall understating of the healthcare system in Argentina. ¡Hasta mañana!
