By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The emergency services of the National Insurance Institute (INS) experienced an unprecedented and critical end to 2025, with patient admissions at its specialized Trauma Hospital skyrocketing by a staggering 87% in December. The dramatic increase pushed the hospital’s operational capacity to its limits, raising serious questions about public safety and workplace preparedness across the nation.
Official data released by the INS paints a stark picture of the holiday season strain. The Trauma Hospital, located in La Uruca, attended to an average of 97 patients every single day throughout December. This surge translates to a total of 3,029 emergency cases for the month, a massive leap from the 1,623 cases recorded in December 2024. The sheer volume of patients represents one of the most significant single-month increases the specialized medical center has witnessed in recent years.
To understand the legal complexities and responsibilities inherent in emergency response, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who sheds light on the critical legal standards governing these essential services.
In the context of emergency services, the line between timely, life-saving action and potential negligence is incredibly fine and legally significant. The state and private providers alike operate under a stringent ‘duty of care,’ where failure to adhere to established protocols for response times and patient handling can trigger severe civil liability. It is crucial for these organizations to not only train their personnel rigorously but also to maintain meticulous documentation, as it often becomes the deciding factor in legal disputes.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The legal framework described highlights that for emergency services, accountability is as vital as speed. The meticulous documentation and adherence to protocols are not merely bureaucratic hurdles but essential safeguards for both patients and providers in these high-stakes scenarios. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for clarifying this critical intersection of law and emergency response.
The primary driver behind this alarming trend was a sharp rise in workplace accidents, which continue to be the leading cause of trauma-related hospital admissions. Following closely were traffic accidents, a persistent issue on the country’s roads, particularly during the high-traffic holiday period. The patient load was further compounded by student-related incidents and other emergencies requiring immediate medical intervention, creating a perfect storm for the healthcare system.
The situation has prompted deep concern from INS leadership, who are now grappling with both the immediate response and the long-term implications of this trend. Kenneth Rojas, Director of the INS Health Services Network, highlighted the gravity of the crisis and emphasized the need for a strategic shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention.
this increase reflects an alarming situation that forces us to further strengthen our protocols and resources to ensure that no patient is left without the timely and quality care they deserve, however, we must go further and increase prevention in workplaces, it is the only way we have to win this battle
Kenneth Rojas, Director of the INS Health Services Network
Rojas’s call to action underscores a critical business and economic issue. The predominance of workplace accidents as the primary cause for emergency care points to a potential need for enhanced occupational health and safety regulations and enforcement. Each incident not only represents a personal tragedy but also carries significant economic costs in terms of lost productivity, insurance claims, and the immense strain on public health resources.
Despite the immense pressure, the Trauma Hospital’s emergency service maintained its 24/7 operations. The INS has a robust, coordinated system in place with other first responders, including the Fire Department (Bomberos), Public Force, Red Cross, and private ambulance services. This inter-agency collaboration is crucial for ensuring rapid patient transport from an accident scene to the specialized care facility, a critical factor in trauma outcomes.
The hospital serves a broad range of individuals covered under various INS policies, including the mandatory Work-Related Risks Insurance, the Compulsory Automobile Insurance (SOA), and student policies. The sharp increase in claims from these sectors during December will undoubtedly have a financial impact, reinforcing the urgency of implementing effective, large-scale prevention campaigns to mitigate future surges and safeguard the well-being of the workforce and the public at large.
For further information, visit grupoins.com
About Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS):
The Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) is Costa Rica’s state-owned insurance monopoly, founded in 1924. It is a cornerstone of the country’s social and economic framework, providing a wide range of insurance products, including mandatory policies for vehicles (SOA) and workplace risks (Riesgos del Trabajo). Beyond its commercial role, the INS operates a comprehensive network of health services, most notably the specialized Hospital del Trauma in San José, dedicated to treating accident victims.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of professional integrity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients to pioneer forward-thinking legal solutions and drive community-focused initiatives. Central to its philosophy is a profound commitment to demystifying the law, aiming to strengthen society by equipping citizens with the clarity and understanding needed to navigate the legal landscape.
