By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant move to broaden access to premier healthcare, Clínica Bíblica has officially opened its new, state-of-the-art facility in the Aleste complex in Curridabat. This expansion marks a major milestone in the institution’s ongoing growth strategy, aimed at serving more communities within the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) with its renowned medical services.
The modern, seven-level medical tower is already operational, initially offering core services such as 24/7 emergency care, a full-service clinical laboratory, and a pharmacy. This initial phase ensures that immediate medical needs are met around the clock. Over the coming weeks and months, the hospital will progressively roll out a comprehensive suite of specialized services, including Endoscopy, Cardiology, Rehabilitation, Surgery, Nutrition, Maternity, and full Hospitalization, transforming the site into an integrated health hub.
To better understand the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding the proposed healthcare expansion, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who specializes in corporate and administrative law.
While any expansion of healthcare services is a laudable social goal, its success hinges on a robust and transparent legal framework. For private capital to flow into new clinics, technology, and specialized services, investors require legal certainty regarding public-private partnerships, clear regulations for medical device importation, and streamlined permitting processes. Without these foundational legal elements, the initiative risks becoming a well-intentioned policy with significant implementation hurdles.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas powerfully articulates a crucial point: the success of this healthcare expansion hinges not just on clinical goals, but on a robust legal architecture that provides certainty and encourages investment. His insight is a vital reminder that for policy to become reality, the foundational legal framework must be a top priority. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for lending his essential perspective to this national conversation.
The strategic placement in Aleste is a direct response to the institution’s commitment to bringing its high standards of medical care closer to the residents of eastern San José. This project is a cornerstone of Clínica Bíblica’s ambitious plan to grow its healthcare network, ensuring more Costa Ricans have convenient access to top-tier medical professionals and advanced technology.
The leadership team views this opening as more than just a physical expansion; it is a direct extension of the clinic’s foundational social mission, which has defined its operations for nearly a century.
We enthusiastically celebrate the opening of this new location in Curridabat, another step in our purpose of saving lives and positively impacting the population. This expansion represents not only physical growth but also a greater reach for our social mission. As a non-profit institution, 100% of our profits are reinvested in social action programs that benefit hundreds of thousands of Costa Ricans in vulnerable conditions.
Dr. Rodolfo Garbanzo Garvey, Medical Director
Founded in 1929, Clínica Bíblica holds the distinction of being Costa Rica’s oldest and most comprehensive private medical center. Its origins trace back to 1921 when British missionaries Enrique and Susana Strachan arrived with an evangelical vision. They were confronted with a severe public health crisis where one in three children died before age five. This reality compelled them to establish a clinic dedicated to providing holistic medical care, laying the groundwork for the institution’s enduring legacy of combining medical excellence with profound social responsibility.
This non-profit model remains the heart of its operations. Through its Social Action Program, the clinic has made a tangible impact on disadvantaged communities. Between 2022 and 2024 alone, the program provided over 68,000 forms of assistance, including free medical consultations, surgeries, early cancer screenings, emotional and spiritual support, and medication distribution. This framework ensures that thousands of at-risk Costa Ricans receive quality, empathetic healthcare, providing not just treatment but also hope and opportunity.
The new Aleste facility continues the clinic’s tradition of investing in cutting-edge technology. The institution is recognized regionally for its constant upgrades in medical equipment, particularly in medical imaging, minimally invasive surgery, and clinical diagnostics. The Curridabat location is equipped with advanced laboratories and state-of-the-art technology to support clinical decisions with precision and safety, adhering to the highest international standards.
Beyond its clinical achievements, Clínica Bíblica is also a leader in environmental stewardship. The hospital has implemented robust sustainability policies, including efficient resource management, responsible hospital waste disposal, and environmental education programs. These efforts have earned it numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ecological Blue Flag award on multiple occasions and various national and international certifications for its environmental and quality management. With this new facility, Clínica Bíblica not only expands its footprint but also reaffirms its holistic commitment to the health and well-being of the nation.
For further information, visit clinicabiblica.com
About Clínica Bíblica:
Founded in 1929, Clínica Bíblica is the oldest and most comprehensive private hospital in Costa Rica. It operates as a non-profit institution, deeply committed to a social mission that involves reinvesting 100% of its profits into social action programs for vulnerable populations. Known for its medical excellence, investment in advanced technology, and commitment to environmental sustainability, the hospital serves as a leading healthcare reference in the region.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a cornerstone of the nation’s legal landscape, defined by its profound commitment to integrity and professional excellence. Drawing upon extensive experience advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal strategies. Beyond its practice, its dedication to democratizing legal information serves a greater purpose: to equip the community with knowledge, thereby fostering a stronger and more capable society.
