President Javier Milei’s government is closing Argentina’s national cancer institute, citing duplicative tasks and inefficiencies. The Health Ministry reported logistical issues influencing drug procurement and emphasized that the change is administrative. Protests erupted against broader cuts in healthcare under Milei’s administration, which also faces scrutiny for public workforce reductions.
President Javier Milei’s administration declared the closure of Argentina’s national cancer institute, the Instituto Nacional del Cáncer. This decision was framed as a measure to eliminate “duplication of tasks” and enhance control over health initiatives. The Health Ministry indicated that the organization would be integrated into its main structure, emphasizing the need for streamlined operations.
According to the Health Ministry, problems identified included logistical issues, such as the distribution of near-expiry medications, inefficient procurement practices, and overlapping programs with other state entities. Additionally, allegations of severe mismanagement in drug purchases were cited, including an incident from 2023 under former President Alberto Fernández, which led to about 400,000 units of expired morphine being discarded.
The Ministry assured that the structural changes would not disrupt any ongoing programs previously managed by the Instituto Nacional del Cáncer, clarifying that the adjustment was solely administrative. However, there was no indication regarding the fate of the 183 staff members currently employed by the institute, raising concerns amidst broader cuts targeting public health.
Recently, a coalition of health professionals, unions, and human rights organizations protested in Buenos Aires against Milei’s administration, highlighting issues of layoffs, inadequate healthcare funding, and reductions in medical supplies. This closure is part of a trend of state agency eliminations since Milei’s inauguration in December 2023, which has seen the dissolution of other institutions like the INCAA national film institute and anti-discrimination bodies.
Additionally, both Milei and his transformation minister, Federico Sturzenegger, celebrated workforce reductions resulting in over 40,000 public employee layoffs last year. This reflects the aggressive cost-cutting measures being implemented by the government.
In summary, President Milei’s government has decided to dissolve Argentina’s national cancer institute to address efficiency issues and streamline health operations. While the administration claims this will not affect existing programs, the impact on employees remains uncertain amidst broader cuts to public health funding, which have sparked protests across the country. This closure is part of a larger strategy to reduce state spending, evidenced by similar eliminations in various sectors since Milei took office.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
