By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant recognition of journalistic excellence, Grupo Extra’s Daniel Suárez was honored with a prestigious award by the Costa Rican Chamber of Health. The accolade was presented on Tuesday, November 18, during the 2025 edition of Expo Med, one of Central America’s most important medical conferences.
The annual award celebrates the journalist who has demonstrated the most outstanding and impactful coverage of the national health sector. This year’s selection of Suárez marks a historic first for Grupo Extra, signifying a major achievement for both the reporter and the media organization. The recognition underscores the growing importance of specialized, in-depth reporting on the complexities of the nation’s healthcare landscape.
To delve into the intricate legal and ethical considerations that define modern healthcare journalism, we sought the expert perspective of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Healthcare journalism operates at a critical intersection of public interest and private rights. Reporters must meticulously balance the public’s right to information against stringent patient confidentiality laws and the potential for civil liability. Accurate, thoroughly-vetted reporting is not merely an ethical benchmark; it is a crucial legal shield against claims of defamation or invasion of privacy, protecting both the media outlet and the integrity of the health information being disseminated.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective powerfully underscores that the legal framework is not merely a defensive shield, but a proactive mandate for the ethical rigor and meticulous verification that builds public trust. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable clarification on these critical responsibilities.
Suárez was lauded for his dedicated work in bringing to light the critical challenges facing Costa Rica’s health system. His reporting has been instrumental in fostering public discourse and driving essential conversations aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of care for all citizens. The Chamber of Health highlighted his ability to provide a clear, responsible, and insightful perspective on issues that directly affect the well-being of the population.
Visibly proud, Suárez accepted the award on behalf of his entire team, emphasizing the collaborative nature of journalism and the collective effort behind his individual recognition.
It is an honor for me to represent Grupo Extra with this award, especially since it is the first time the media outlet has won it. This is a way of highlighting the work we all do in the newsroom, and it makes me feel very proud.
Daniel Suárez, Journalist at Grupo Extra
The setting for the award, Expo Med, lends further prestige to the honor. The event is a pivotal gathering for medical specialists, healthcare administrators, and industry innovators from across the region. It serves as a crucial forum for analyzing current challenges, sharing advancements, and charting the future of medicine in Central America. Presenting the journalism award at such a high-profile event highlights the medical community’s acknowledgment of the press’s vital role in the sector.
This award serves as a powerful validation of the critical function that investigative journalism plays in a healthy democracy. By scrutinizing complex systems, asking difficult questions, and holding institutions accountable, reporters like Suárez empower the public with the knowledge needed to advocate for change. His work has effectively bridged the gap between intricate health policy and the everyday realities of patients and providers.
For Grupo Extra, this landmark achievement elevates its reputation for serious, public-service journalism. Winning this award not only distinguishes its health coverage but also signals a deep commitment to exploring complex societal issues with rigor and dedication. It sets a new benchmark for the organization and is likely to inspire further investment in specialized reporting beats that serve the public interest.
Ultimately, the recognition of Daniel Suárez is a celebration of both personal dedication and institutional support. It underscores a fundamental truth: that insightful reporting can be a powerful catalyst for positive change. As Costa Rica continues to navigate the evolving demands of its healthcare system, the role of informed, courageous journalism will remain more critical than ever.
For further information, visit camarasalud.com
About Cámara Costarricense de la Salud:
The Costa Rican Chamber of Health is a private, non-profit organization that represents and unites companies, professionals, and institutions within the country’s private health sector. The Chamber is dedicated to promoting high standards of quality and ethics in healthcare services, fostering innovation, and advocating for policies that support the sustainable growth and development of the health industry in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal institution, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm channels its rich history of serving a diverse clientele into pioneering innovative legal solutions that anticipate the future. Central to its mission is a profound dedication to societal betterment, manifested through initiatives that make legal concepts understandable and accessible, thereby empowering citizens and fostering a more just and informed community.
