Isapres Warn: The ‘Short Law’ Project is Useless and Threatens the Entire Health System

The Association of Isapres (private health insurance providers) has strongly criticized the ‘Short Law’ project, stating that it is ‘useless’ and will lead to the collapse of the private health insurance system in Chile. In a statement, the industry group asserted that ‘in its current state, the Short Law is useless, as without an agreement for its implementation and failing to restore financial balance, it fails in its purpose.’

The ‘Short Law’ project aims to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the use of risk factor tables, which requires insurers to reimburse their affiliates for excessive charges. However, the Isapres argue that ‘to implement the adjustments, it is essential to normalize the operation of the sector. If the law is approved as it is or if there is no law, it will be the end of the Isapres, as the income is already insufficient to cover the health costs of the beneficiaries.’

Isapres Call for a Consensus Agreement

The Isapres association emphasizes that ‘if the viability of the sector’s operation is not ensured, the coverage of the beneficiaries, which they have freely chosen, will inevitably cease, with serious consequences for the continuity of their medical treatments and the network of health providers, thus completing the crisis that has been so intensely sought to be avoided.’ Therefore, they call on the Executive to ‘reach a consensus agreement that avoids this outcome, which we assume no one wants.’

The Need for a Comprehensive Health System Reform

The Isapres acknowledge that ‘the health system requires a major reform, which we support and want to help build.’ However, they warn that ‘the transition must not be from a deep crisis in the health sector, which would make us regress instead of advancing towards a more equitable system, with better responses to the needs of patients.’

Conclusion

The Isapres’ strong opposition to the ‘Short Law’ project highlights the complex challenges facing the Chilean health system. They argue that the proposed legislation, if implemented without a consensus agreement, will lead to the collapse of the private health insurance sector, with severe consequences for patients and the entire healthcare network. The Isapres call for a comprehensive reform that addresses the system’s underlying issues and ensures the viability of both the public and private healthcare providers.

The Isapres’ stance underscores the need for a collaborative and well-planned approach to healthcare reform in Chile, one that balances the interests of all stakeholders and prioritizes the well-being of patients.