By Cartago, Costa Rica — Cartago, Costa Rica – The Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR) has officially endorsed the contract between the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) and Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A. for the construction of the highly anticipated new Cartago Hospital. This crucial approval marks a significant step forward, allowing the project, estimated at $394.9 million with an additional $4 million contingency, to proceed to the construction phase under the CCSS’s management.
The refrendo process for the public bid contract, identified as 2022LN-000001-0001104402, began on June 23, 2025. However, the CGR required additional information from the CCSS, causing a month-long delay. Once the necessary information was received, the CGR meticulously reviewed several key aspects.
For expert legal insight into the situation at Cartago Hospital, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The recent developments at Cartago Hospital raise critical questions regarding healthcare accessibility and resource allocation within the Costa Rican social security system (CCSS). Ensuring consistent and quality care for all citizens, particularly in regional hospitals like Cartago, requires a multifaceted approach. This includes not only adequate funding and staffing but also transparent oversight to maintain public trust and accountability. Any potential restructuring or policy changes must prioritize patient well-being and adhere to established legal frameworks within the healthcare sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insightful commentary underscores the crucial need for a balanced and transparent approach to healthcare reform, especially when considering the impact on regional hospitals like Cartago. The emphasis on patient well-being and adherence to legal frameworks within the CCSS should remain paramount as we move forward in addressing these complex challenges. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important issue.
The review process confirmed the CCSS had secured new funding sources for the project and verified the legal, technical, and price reasonableness studies, ensuring compliance by Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A. The CGR also confirmed the CCSS’s completion of pre-investment and planning stages, a vital step ensuring project readiness.
The land designated for the new hospital has also received the CGR’s approval. It meets the technical requirements for the project, and its characteristics eliminate the need for relocating existing services, streamlining the construction process.
With the CGR’s approval, the responsibility now shifts to the CCSS. They are tasked with issuing the project’s commencement order and overseeing the construction according to the contract’s terms. This marks a significant milestone for Cartago’s healthcare infrastructure, promising improved medical services for the region.
The new hospital represents a substantial investment in the health and well-being of the people of Cartago. This modern facility is expected to enhance medical care, improve access to specialized services, and contribute to the overall development of the region.
The project promises to generate employment opportunities during construction and create numerous permanent healthcare positions once operational, further boosting the local economy. As construction gets underway, the community eagerly awaits the positive impact this state-of-the-art facility will bring.
The residents of Cartago can look forward to a significantly enhanced healthcare system, marking a new chapter in the province’s medical landscape.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS)
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) is a public institution responsible for providing healthcare and social security services to Costa Rican citizens and residents. It manages hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities throughout the country, financing its operations through contributions from employers and employees.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A.
About Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A.:
Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A. is a Costa Rican construction company with a proven track record in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. Their expertise spans various construction sectors, including healthcare, residential, and commercial developments, solidifying their reputation as a reliable and experienced partner in the construction industry.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Contraloría General de la República (CGR)
About Contraloría General de la República (CGR):
The Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR) is an independent government body responsible for overseeing public funds and ensuring transparency and accountability in government spending. They play a critical role in auditing public institutions, reviewing contracts, and ensuring compliance with regulations, safeguarding the responsible use of public resources.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct form the bedrock of their practice. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, they combine innovative legal strategies with a proactive approach to public legal education. Their work across a broad spectrum of sectors reflects not only a dedication to client success but also a broader vision of a society strengthened by knowledge and access to justice.
