Following Comptroller General approval and publication in the Official Gazette, the nationwide oncology sanitary alert—declared by President José Antonio Kast in late March amid delays affecting thousands on cancer waiting lists—has taken effect. It grants the Ministry of Health extraordinary powers to expedite diagnostics and treatments for 33,000 patients until September 30, 2026, with potential extension.
The decree, signed by President José Antonio Kast in late March and initially pending review, took effect today after Official Gazette publication. It targets oncology urgencies among patients on delayed GES guarantees and No GES waiting lists, now totaling 33,000 people.
Health Minister May Chomali's ministry gains powers under the sanitary code to hire staff, directly procure medical goods and services, import medicines, and coordinate distribution. A National Operational Plan will be released within ten business days to contact affected patients and initiate treatments.
Chomali emphasized the measure's ethical imperative: “This sanitary alert is not just an administrative issue; it is an act of responsibility. To clearly state that the State cannot be late, because that means losing people's trust.” Assistance centers will proactively contact users to schedule appointments.
If a center cannot provide care, patients will be referred to another Fonasa-convened provider. The minister recommended calling Salud Responde if no contact is made in coming weeks.
