Health Minister May Chomali has dismissed allegations brought before the Senate Health Committee regarding potential shortages of medical supplies and physician appointments resulting from sector-wide budget cuts.
The official called claims that the 3% budget reduction would affect the operations of Family Health Centers (Cesfam) "absolutely false." According to the Secretary, the government will not reduce funding allocated to municipalities.
Guaranteeing resources for primary care
Chomali specified that ministerial guidelines aim to protect primary care. During her appearance, she emphasized that efforts have been made to prevent any degradation of local services.
“We are not reducing the 3% of resources being transferred to municipalities; quite the contrary,” the Minister stated. She noted that, in fact, the commission previously charged by Cenabast to municipalities for medication purchases has been eliminated.
The Minister assured that this adjustment will reduce that cost to zero for municipalities, aiming to bolster the budget available for purchasing essential drugs.
The official reiterated her commitment to the continuity of medical services. “Patient care is not up for debate,” Chomali declared, after confirming that regular meetings have been held with health service directors.