By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a stark reminder of ongoing public health challenges, the Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia Hospital announced a dual crisis today. Effective immediately, the hospital has reinstated a mandatory mask policy for all visitors, while its Emergency Service is grappling with a staggering 130% occupancy rate, placing immense strain on resources just two days before Christmas.
The new mask mandate, which began this Tuesday, December 23, applies to all individuals visiting hospitalized patients. Hospital officials have stated the measure will remain in effect indefinitely, with its eventual suspension contingent upon a favorable shift in the epidemiological trends of respiratory viruses. This proactive step is aimed at safeguarding the health of both the hospital’s vulnerable patient population and the general public visiting the facility.
To analyze the legal responsibilities of the state and the potential liabilities arising from the critical issue of hospital overcrowding, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The saturation of our hospitals is not just a logistical crisis; it’s a potential violation of the constitutional right to health. When the state, through the CCSS, fails to provide timely and dignified care due to systemic overcrowding, it exposes itself to significant legal liability. Affected citizens can, and should, consider legal avenues such as the Recurso de Amparo to demand immediate attention and hold the administration accountable for its failure to manage public health resources effectively.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is crucial, reframing the debate from a logistical challenge to a fundamental issue of constitutional rights and state accountability. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight on the legal recourse available to citizens facing this critical failure in our public health system.
In an official statement released on its social media channels, the medical center outlined the rationale for the renewed precaution, emphasizing the need for a controlled and safe environment within its wards. The communication serves as a clear directive to the community during a period typically marked by increased social gatherings and, consequently, a higher risk of viral transmission.
Starting December 23, 2025, and until further notice, this measure will be implemented for the protection and safety of both visitors and hospitalized patients
Hospital Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia, Official Statement
While the mask requirement addresses a preventative strategy, the more immediate crisis is unfolding in the hospital’s front-line services. The Emergency Service is currently operating at 30% beyond its official capacity, a situation attributed to an “extraordinary increase in the demand for attention.” This surge has overwhelmed the department, leading to significant operational challenges.
Hospital administrators have issued an urgent plea to the public, asking for a rational and considered use of its emergency facilities. They are urging citizens to reserve the Emergency Service for genuinely life-threatening conditions or severe medical emergencies, thereby allowing staff to prioritize patients who are in critical need of immediate care. The overload has created a bottleneck, and officials warn the public to expect longer-than-usual wait times and potential delays in certain care processes.
Despite these challenging circumstances, the hospital’s leadership has reassured the public of its staff’s unwavering dedication. They affirmed that medical and support personnel are continuing to work with profound commitment and professionalism to deliver safe, high-quality care to every patient. However, the reality of the situation means that the system’s capacity to absorb new patients is severely compromised.
The convergence of these two events—a preventative mask mandate and a reactive crisis in the emergency room—paints a concerning picture of the strain on San José’s healthcare infrastructure during the holiday season. The mandatory use of masks is not just a policy but a necessary defense to prevent the already critical situation in the emergency department from worsening, as any new influx of patients with respiratory illnesses could push the system past its breaking point.
As families prepare to gather for the holidays, the situation at Calderón Guardia serves as a critical health advisory for the entire capital region. The hospital’s ability to manage this pressure will depend heavily on public cooperation, both in adhering to the new mask rules and in making judicious decisions about seeking emergency care, ensuring that resources remain available for the most severe cases.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Hospital Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia
About Hospital Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia:
The Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia Hospital is one of Costa Rica’s most important public medical centers, located in the capital city of San José. As a cornerstone of the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), the nation’s universal healthcare system, it provides a wide range of specialized medical services, serves as a teaching hospital, and plays a vital role in the health and well-being of the Costa Rican population.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s legal landscape, built upon a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing from a rich history of guiding a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies. This forward-thinking approach is matched by a profound commitment to public service, centered on demystifying the law to foster a society that is both legally aware and empowered.
