Pediatric emergency: Deputies approved the measure and warn that "the situation cannot wait any longer."

In a special session , the Chamber of Deputies approved the bill declaring a national pediatric and residential health emergency. The proposal was supported by 159 votes in favor, 67 against, and four abstentions. It establishes a two-year deadline for implementing measures to strengthen the children's health system nationwide.

The initiative includes an immediate allocation of budgetary allocations to cover critical supplies, medications, infrastructure, essential personnel, medical technology, and vaccines. The goal is to address the growing demand in hospitals and pediatric centers due to a lack of resources.

The bill also includes a salary increase for healthcare workers involved in pediatric care, both in and out of care. National residents in all medical specialties are also recognized, with the goal of restoring their salary levels and promoting greater responsibility for their work.

In addition, income tax exemption is established for those who perform critical functions, including overtime and on-call work. This measure applies to both the public and private sectors and is part of the urgent action package to contain the crisis in pediatric care.

Another key point is the authorization for the State to make direct purchases of essential supplies and medicines, using exceptional mechanisms provided for in the Public Emergency Law. This would speed up the procurement process without having to go through extensive bidding processes.

According to Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates, bringing pediatric staff salaries up to November 2023 levels would require $65.573 billion between July and December. Projected over a year, the expenditure would be around $133.433 billion.

The opposition supported the proposal, although questions were also raised about the source of the funds. However, the majority agreed that the situation requires an urgent response. "The situation cannot wait any longer," said a ruling party legislator during the debate.

If the Senate approves the bill, the government will have to implement concrete measures to implement the pediatric health emergency . In a context of adjustments and cuts, the challenge will be finding a solution without defunding other areas. This issue is added to the list of priorities that Javier Milei 's administration must address immediately.