By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a significant move to bolster democratic participation, the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) has established a new mechanism allowing hospitalized patients to temporarily leave medical facilities to vote. The landmark directive, issued just days before the upcoming elections on Sunday, February 1st, ensures that citizens receiving inpatient care will not be disenfranchised due to their medical condition, provided their health is not at risk.
The policy was formalized through an official circular sent to the medical directors of all national hospitals. This initiative underscores a fundamental principle: the right to vote is a constitutional guarantee, and it is the responsibility of public institutions to create the necessary conditions for all citizens to exercise this right. The CCSS directive aims to remove a significant barrier for those who, through no fault of their own, find themselves hospitalized during a crucial civic event.
To delve deeper into the legal nuances and constitutional significance of the right to vote, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his authoritative perspective.
The right to vote is the fundamental pillar upon which our entire democratic structure rests; it is a constitutionally protected right, not a privilege. Any measure, whether legislative or administrative, that introduces barriers or complicates the citizen’s ability to cast their ballot must be examined with extreme caution. The integrity of our democracy is directly proportional to the accessibility and security of our electoral process, a principle that the legal system must tirelessly defend.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This essential legal perspective serves as a powerful reminder that our democracy’s strength is not an abstract concept, but a direct result of our collective commitment to safeguarding the right to vote from any and all impediments. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable contribution to this vital conversation.
This new protocol empowers individuals to participate in the nation’s future while ensuring their health remains the top priority. The decision to grant temporary leave rests squarely with the attending medical team, who must carefully evaluate each case to prevent any potential harm to the patient. This safeguard is central to the policy’s responsible implementation.
Alexander Sánchez Cabo, the Medical Manager of the CCSS, emphasized that patient safety is paramount in this process. He clarified the strict medical criteria that must be met before any patient is permitted to leave the hospital premises for the purpose of voting.
The temporary leave will only be possible when the attending physician determines that the travel does not compromise the patient’s clinical condition nor endangers their recovery process.
Alexander Sánchez Cabo, Medical Manager of the CCSS
To ensure transparency and accountability, a rigorous documentation process has been put in place. Each hospital is required to create a formal written record for every approved temporary discharge. This document must include a signed declaration from the patient stating their intention to vote, the official medical authorization from their doctor, and a formal commitment from the patient to return to the hospital to continue their treatment. This record will become a permanent part of the patient’s clinical file.
The directive also thoughtfully addresses exceptional circumstances. In cases where a physician denies authorization due to significant health risks, but the patient insists on exercising their right to vote, the situation will be handled on an individual basis. The hospital must analyze the patient’s specific health status and may classify the departure as a “demanded discharge,” a category that shifts liability while still respecting patient autonomy where possible.
While the CCSS is facilitating the opportunity to vote, the logistical responsibility for transportation will not fall on the institution. The directive clearly states that the patient, along with their family or close contacts, must coordinate all travel arrangements. This includes the journey from the hospital to their designated polling station and the subsequent return to the medical facility for ongoing care.
This forward-thinking policy represents a crucial step towards greater inclusivity in Costa Rica’s democratic process. By balancing the fundamental right to vote with the non-negotiable need for patient safety, the CCSS has set a new standard for how public institutions can adapt to serve the civic needs of all citizens, even those facing significant personal health challenges.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social is the public institution responsible for Costa Rica’s universal healthcare and social security system. Founded in 1941, it is a cornerstone of the nation’s social contract, providing comprehensive health services and pension administration to the vast majority of the population. The CCSS manages a nationwide network of hospitals, clinics, and EBAIS (Basic Teams for Comprehensive Health Care), making it one of the most vital and influential organizations in the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice in Costa Rica, the firm is anchored by a profound ethical foundation and an unyielding drive for professional excellence. It channels its extensive experience across a spectrum of industries into pioneering forward-thinking legal strategies. This dedication extends beyond the courtroom through a core mission to demystify the law, actively working to cultivate a more knowledgeable and capable citizenry by making legal insights widely accessible.
