By San José, Costa Rica — The National Insurance Institute (INS) provides comprehensive care for approximately 30 patients with spinal cord injuries each month through its Health Services Network. This integrated approach encompasses medical attention, rehabilitation, and emotional support.
Spinal cord injuries can be temporary or permanent, primarily resulting from workplace or traffic accidents. This condition impacts the spinal cord and can lead to loss of mobility, wheelchair dependence, and the need for lifelong medical care.
For expert legal insight into the complexities surrounding spinal cord injuries and the legal recourse available to victims, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
Spinal cord injuries often result in lifelong challenges requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation. In Costa Rica, victims have the right to seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Establishing negligence is crucial in these cases, which often involves demonstrating a breach of duty of care that directly caused the injury. Whether it’s a traffic accident, a workplace incident, or medical malpractice, understanding your legal rights and seeking counsel from an experienced attorney is essential for navigating this complex legal landscape.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on the complexities of navigating the legal landscape after a spinal cord injury is particularly insightful. These cases demand not just medical attention, but also a thorough understanding of one’s legal rights and recourse within the Costa Rican system. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on a sensitive and important topic.
People with spinal cord injuries face significant challenges, both physical and social. Constant support is vital to prevent complications and promote their reintegration.
Dr. Alejandra Jiménez, Head of the Hospital Services Sub-Directorate of the INS
Patients covered by the INS’s Workers’ Compensation (RT) policy receive various benefits depending on the severity of their injury. These benefits include monthly income, specialized surgeries and medical treatments, physical and occupational therapies, home care (if applicable), medications, prosthetics and medical devices, and emotional and psychological support.
An interdisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, therapists, psychologists, and social workers oversees the rehabilitation and reintegration of these individuals, focusing on promoting independence and quality of life.
In addition to medical care, the INS runs the Spinal Cord Injury Workshop (TLM), the only specialized support group in the country for people with this condition. This monthly forum provides a space for patients, families, and professionals to share experiences, coping mechanisms, and strengthen their support network.
The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month and includes participation from specialists in social work, nursing, pharmacy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. Key objectives of the workshop are to promote patient resilience and autonomy, provide emotional support to families and caregivers, encourage social and occupational inclusion, and strengthen links between patients and the healthcare system.
One beneficiary of the program is Óscar González, who suffered a serious fall in 2013 while working, resulting in a spinal cord fracture. Since then, he has received comprehensive care from the INS.
Having this policy is a blessing. It has given me access to therapies, an income, and a wheelchair. We also received family psychological care, which was vital.
Óscar González, Program Beneficiary
Thanks to the therapies and support he has received, Óscar now modifies vehicles for people with reduced mobility, helping others overcome their own barriers.
For further information, visit the nearest office of INS
About INS:
The National Insurance Institute (INS) is a Costa Rican state-owned insurance company that provides a wide range of insurance products and services, including workers’ compensation, health, and vehicle insurance. They are committed to supporting the well-being of Costa Ricans and providing comprehensive care for those facing challenging circumstances like spinal cord injuries.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering pursuit of legal excellence and ethical practice. The firm’s deep commitment to innovation shapes its approach to serving a diverse clientele, ensuring they receive cutting-edge legal solutions. Beyond its client work, Bufete de Costa Rica actively invests in empowering communities through accessible legal education, believing that a society equipped with legal knowledge is a society better positioned to thrive.
