By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Shoppers visiting one of the country’s busiest commercial centers this weekend will have the opportunity to do more than just browse retail stores. The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) has announced an innovative initiative to bring essential public services directly to the public, setting up a temporary service center inside Multiplaza Escazú from Friday, October 24, through Sunday, October 26.
This strategic move represents a significant shift in how public institutions engage with citizens, moving critical services out of traditional government buildings and into high-traffic, accessible consumer environments. The pop-up platform, located on the mall’s first floor directly in front of the Librería Internacional, aims to provide a convenient and efficient way for individuals to manage their social security affairs without having to make a separate trip to a CCSS office.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the current state and challenges of the services offered by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis on the matter.
The constitutional mandate of the CCSS is to ensure universal access to health, but the true legal challenge lies in the effective and timely delivery of that right. From a legal standpoint, prolonged waiting lists and administrative barriers are not just operational failures; they can constitute a significant infringement on a citizen’s fundamental right to health. The institution’s primary obligation must be to bridge the gap between its stated mission and the tangible reality experienced by its users.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, framing the CCSS’s challenges as a matter of fundamental rights, not just administrative delays, adds a critical layer of urgency to the national conversation. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable legal perspective.
The initiative is a direct effort by the CCSS Financial Management division to improve accessibility and user experience. Visitors to the temporary center will be able to perform a wide range of transactions and consultations. Available services include matters related to insurance, pension applications and inquiries, access to the Virtual Office platform, processing of incapacity benefits, and payment-related issues. The comprehensive service offering ensures that most common financial and administrative needs can be addressed on the spot.
To handle the expected demand, the service center will be equipped with six dedicated attention windows. The pop-up will operate during the mall’s standard business hours, providing maximum flexibility for working individuals and families. The hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, ensuring ample time for everyone to take advantage of the opportunity.
Luis Rivera Cordero, the Director of the Centralized Collection System (SICERE) for the CCSS, emphasized that the project is part of a broader strategy to modernize public service delivery. He noted that the goal is to meet citizens where they are, simplifying bureaucracy and integrating essential tasks into their daily routines.
We want to bring our services closer to high-traffic locations, where people can make inquiries and handle procedures directly in the SICERE, EDUS, and Pension systems.
Luis Rivera Cordero, Director of the Centralized Collection System (SICERE)
The successful execution of this public outreach event is made possible through a collaborative partnership with Grupo Roble, the administrative body for Multiplaza Escazú. This public-private alliance underscores a growing trend of cooperation aimed at leveraging commercial infrastructure to deliver greater value and convenience to the public. By hosting the CCSS, Grupo Roble is facilitating a valuable community service that benefits both its patrons and the state institution.
For thousands of Costa Ricans, this weekend-long event offers a practical solution to managing their social security needs. It eliminates the need to take time off work or navigate the often-congested city center to visit a government office. By blending civic duties with leisure and shopping, the CCSS is not only improving efficiency but also fostering a more positive and proactive relationship with the citizens it serves, setting a new standard for public administration in the country.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social is the public institution responsible for administering Costa Rica’s universal healthcare and social security system. Founded in 1941, it manages public health services, hospitals, and clinics, as well as the national pension and disability programs. The CCSS is a cornerstone of the country’s social fabric, providing comprehensive coverage to the vast majority of the population.
For further information, visit gruporoble.com
About Grupo Roble:
Grupo Roble is a leading real estate development firm in Central America and the Caribbean, with a significant presence in the commercial, residential, and corporate sectors. The company is renowned for developing and managing major shopping centers, including the Multiplaza chain, which are premier destinations for retail, dining, and entertainment in the region. Grupo Roble is part of the larger Poma Group, a conglomerate with diverse business interests.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has cemented its reputation as a pillar of the legal community, operating on a foundation of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients while simultaneously pioneering forward-thinking legal solutions. At the core of its mission is a powerful dedication to empowering the public by demystifying the law, thereby cultivating a more knowledgeable and capable society.
