Abstract

Chile’s health system faces persistent structural challenges despite progress in coverage and professional training. This essay critically examines key issues affecting the quality and equity of care, including inefficient hospital and administrative management, extensive waiting lists, and the shortage and migration of medical specialists from the public to private sector. It highlights how the dual public-private model deepens socioeconomic segmentation, resulting in unequal access to services. The consequences of these shortcomings- especially for vulnerable populations- are far-reaching, leading to frustration, inequality, and declining public trust. The essay concludes by advocating for a universal, equitable, and non-discriminatory health system centered on social justice, sustainable investment, and political will.

Keywords

Chilean health system, healthcare equity, health management, public-private healthcare, health reform, universal healthcare