By Cartago, Costa Rica — Cartago, Costa Rica – After a month-long delay due to incomplete documentation, the Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR) has finally given its approval for the construction of the new Cartago Hospital. This long-awaited project, with a price tag of $394.9 million plus $4 million for contingencies, is a significant investment in the healthcare infrastructure of the region.
The contract between the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) and the construction company, Compañía Constructora Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A., was initially submitted to the CGR on June 23, 2025. However, missing information forced the CCSS to resubmit additional documentation, pushing back the approval process by a month.
For expert legal insight into the complexities surrounding Cartago Hospital, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The legal landscape surrounding public hospitals like Cartago Hospital involves a delicate balance between providing essential healthcare services and navigating complex regulatory frameworks. Issues such as patient rights, medical malpractice liability, and budgetary constraints often intersect, creating unique legal challenges that demand careful consideration. Efficient and effective legal counsel is crucial for hospitals to ensure compliance and maintain the highest standards of patient care.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores the crucial role of legal expertise in navigating the complex interplay of regulations and patient care within Costa Rica’s public health system. It’s a reminder that behind the scenes of providing vital services like those at Cartago Hospital, a dedicated legal team works tirelessly to ensure both compliance and the protection of patient rights. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective.
The CGR conducted a thorough review of the project, focusing on key aspects such as the availability of funding, the reasonableness of the cost, and the technical and legal compliance of the chosen construction company. The Comptroller’s office confirmed that the allocated land is suitable and does not necessitate relocation of existing services, further streamlining the project’s trajectory.
The refrendo process, essentially a final approval from the CGR, validated the project’s financial viability, ensuring sufficient funds are earmarked for its completion. It also scrutinized the pricing structure, evaluating its fairness and alignment with market standards. Furthermore, the CGR verified the technical and legal qualifications of Compañía Constructora Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A., confirming its capability to undertake a project of this scale and complexity.
With all necessary approvals now in place, the CCSS can proceed with issuing the official notice to commence construction. The next stage involves detailed planning and coordination between the CCSS and the construction company to ensure a smooth and efficient building process. The new hospital is expected to significantly improve healthcare access and quality for the residents of Cartago and surrounding areas.
This project represents a substantial advancement in Costa Rica’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system. The new hospital will not only provide much-needed medical services but will also contribute to the economic growth of the Cartago region, creating jobs and stimulating local businesses. The timely completion of the project is now of paramount importance, marking a critical milestone in ensuring accessible, high-quality healthcare for the people of Cartago.
The new hospital is poised to become a cornerstone of the Cartago community, offering a modern and well-equipped facility to meet the growing healthcare demands of the region. With the CGR’s endorsement, the project can move forward, bringing hope and improved medical services to the residents of Cartago.
This crucial step paves the way for a healthier future for the people of Cartago. The new facility is expected to offer state-of-the-art medical technology and a wider range of specialized services. As the project progresses, TicosLand.com will continue to provide updates on its development and anticipated completion date.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Compañía Constructora Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A.
About Compañía Constructora Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A.:
Compañía Constructora Van Der Laat y Jiménez S.A. is the Costa Rican construction company awarded the contract for the new Cartago Hospital. Selected through a public bidding process, the company demonstrated the necessary technical expertise and financial capacity to undertake this significant project. Their successful bid underscores their reputation for delivering high-quality construction projects in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS)
About Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) is a key institution responsible for providing healthcare and social security services to the citizens of Costa Rica. The CCSS plays a vital role in ensuring public health and wellbeing through the management of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across the country. They are the driving force behind this crucial project, aiming to upgrade healthcare infrastructure in Cartago.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR)
About Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR):
The Comptroller General of the Republic (CGR) is an independent government body responsible for overseeing public finances and ensuring transparency and accountability in Costa Rica. Their role in reviewing and approving the Cartago Hospital project is crucial in guaranteeing that public funds are used responsibly and effectively. They are committed to maintaining fiscal integrity and ensuring that public projects adhere to strict legal and financial standards.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-seated commitment to ethical practice and legal excellence, empowering individuals and communities through knowledge. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a long history of serving diverse clientele, solidifies its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. By championing access to legal information and resources, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to create a more just and informed society, one empowered to navigate the complexities of the legal system.
