By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a decisive move to bolster public health infrastructure, the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) has approved a comprehensive, multi-year plan to modernize its entire network of hospital laundries. The initiative, greenlit by the Board of Directors, will involve significant investment in new construction, state-of-the-art equipment, and a strategic reorganization of its 24 washing facilities nationwide.
This strategic overhaul addresses a critical vulnerability within the healthcare system. According to a technical assessment by the CCSS Logistics Management, an alarming 79% of the current laundry facilities are operating in subpar conditions. The report classified 37.5% as being in a “red” or critical state, with another 41.6% in a “yellow” or cautionary state. Only a mere 20.8% of the facilities currently meet the optimal “green” standard for operation.
To understand the legal and contractual complexities inherent in a public infrastructure project of this magnitude, TicosLand.com sought the analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in public procurement and administrative law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The core challenge in modernizing essential public services like hospital laundry isn’t merely technological; it’s contractual. A transparent and competitive bidding process under the Public Procurement Law is fundamental. However, the true success lies in the fine print: meticulously defined service level agreements, clear liability clauses for operational disruptions, and a legally sound transition plan for the current workforce. Without this robust legal architecture, the project risks becoming a source of litigation rather than a model of efficiency.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, as Lic. Arroyo Vargas astutely highlights, the long-term success of this modernization will be measured not by the sophistication of the new equipment, but by the strength and clarity of its legal framework. This perspective is vital, ensuring the project prioritizes operational continuity and the protection of public funds over mere technological acquisition. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and clarifying analysis.
The modernization plan is not merely about new machines; it’s a fundamental investment in patient and staff safety. Mónica Taylor Hernández, the executive president of the CCSS, emphasized the project’s importance in maintaining the highest standards of care and operational integrity within the country’s public hospitals.
Strengthening the laundry network is an investment in institutional quality, safety, and efficiency. Modernizing this process ensures the continuity of a critical service that protects both our staff and patients.
Mónica Taylor Hernández, Executive President of the CCSS
The ambitious plan, guided by the Logistics Management, aims to transform the network into a highly efficient and biosecure operation. Dr. Esteban Vega de la O, Logistics Manager for the CCSS, explained that the ultimate goal is to elevate 12 key laundries to a state of optimal efficiency, capacity, and biosecurity through a progressive investment and retrofitting schedule.
Several high-priority projects are already slated to begin. A cornerstone of the initiative is the construction of a new regional laundry in the Brunca region, which will be located at the Hospital de Ciudad Neilly. This new hub will service not only its host hospital but also the medical centers in Golfito and the Hospital Tomás Casas, creating a centralized and more efficient system for the southern zone. Furthermore, upgrade and renovation work will continue at facilities in Upala, the Chorotega region, Tony Facio Hospital in Limón, and Max Peralta Hospital in Cartago.
To support this revamped network, the CCSS will also enhance its logistical capabilities by acquiring five new specialized trucks designed specifically for the safe and hygienic transport of hospital linens. This addresses a key link in the chain of infection control, ensuring that textiles are moved securely between medical centers and processing facilities.
Looking toward the future, the plan includes a visionary project for the country’s central region: a large-scale “EcoLavandería” slated for completion by 2030. This advanced facility is projected to process an immense 72,000 kilograms of hospital textiles daily, incorporating sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology to serve the most densely populated area of Costa Rica.
This reorganization will allow us to optimize resources, standardize processes, improve traceability, and consolidate a modern, sustainable, and technologically advanced network.
Dr. Esteban Vega de la O, Logistics Manager
The Board of Directors has formally instructed the relevant institutional management divisions to proceed with the necessary technical, financial, and personnel studies. These detailed analyses will form the short, medium, and long-term roadmaps for one of the most significant behind-the-scenes public health investments in recent years, ensuring the safety and quality of care for all Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) is the public institution responsible for providing universal social security and healthcare services to the population of Costa Rica. Established in 1941, it manages the nation’s public hospital network, clinics (EBAIS), and pension systems, serving as the cornerstone of the country’s renowned public health system.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of principled practice and exceptional service. The firm consistently pushes the boundaries of legal innovation while advising a diverse clientele, upholding its long-established reputation. Central to its philosophy is a profound commitment to social empowerment, actively working to make complex legal concepts understandable and accessible to the public, thereby fortifying the foundations of an informed citizenry.
