A Visit to the Public Hospital
My spouse has a genetic skin disorder called Darier’s Disease, a condition that’s notoriously difficult to treat. It tends to worsen during the summer months—like now—and this is the worst I’ve seen his skin in over 12 years. Back in the U.S., we’d be in trouble since we didn’t have health insurance, and the medication he needs is prohibitively expensive. But here in Argentina, we decided to visit the public hospital on Santa Rosa Street in Córdoba City.
Hospital Appearance
The hospital felt like a maze of worn-down corridors. The walls and doors were in poor condition, though we later learned renovations were underway—which explained the paint fumes and dust. The lack of air conditioning made the summer heat unbearable, adding to the discomfort.
Staff and Patient Interactions
We noticed some patients being treated curtly or even rudely at certain nurse’s stations. Elderly individuals seemed to receive particularly dismissive treatment, and one patient—a foreigner from Mexico—was told to leave with the slur “mojado” (“wetback”). For those unfamiliar, this is a derogatory term and completely unacceptable. It was clear that complaining about such behavior would go nowhere, which left me feeling angry and powerless.
Finally, Progress
When the records office reopened at 2 p.m., we were able to create my spouse’s clinical history folder in about 30 minutes. The folder includes basic patient information like name, address, and ID number.
Here’s something worth noting: you don’t need to be an Argentine resident or citizen to receive treatment at a public hospital. Creating the folder cost just 3 pesos, and a same-day doctor visit was 45 pesos. Morning appointments cost even less—just 20 pesos—but you have to schedule them in advance.
UPDATE 2024: New government rules are going into effect that require patients to be Argentine residents or citizens to take advantage of the free healthcare.
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| You can pay your fee at Caja 1, Caja 2, or Informes |
The Cost of “Free” Healthcare
Although healthcare in Argentina is often described as free, there are nominal fees for most services. Here’s a quick price breakdown:
- Clinical history folder: 3 pesos ($0.50 USD, one-time fee)
- Morning doctor appointment: 20 pesos ($3.37 USD)
- Same-day doctor visit: 45 pesos ($7.51 USD)
- Blood work: 43–50 pesos ($7.17–$8.34 USD)
- Emergency room visit: 35 pesos ($5.84 USD)
- Psychologist visit: 25 pesos ($4.17 USD)
(Update: As of 2017, these fees were eliminated, but there’s talk they may return.)
A Teaching Opportunity
My spouse’s dermatologist asked him to return the next day to participate in a research study for her students. Since Darier’s Disease is both rare and genetic, this was a valuable learning opportunity. She had been professional and friendly, so he agreed.
The next day, my spouse found himself in a classroom surrounded by interns, instructors, and specialists. They examined his condition, taking photos and conducting tests. Although he felt a bit embarrassed, he recognized the potential value of the study in improving treatments for himself and others.
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| Lab for blood work and other analysis |
Diagnostic Tests and Costs
Following the study, the dermatologist ordered several tests, including blood work, skin biopsies, and an MRI to ensure his liver could handle the prescribed medication, Soriatane. The total cost for all the tests came to 300 pesos ($50 USD).
Steps for Visiting a Public Hospital
Step 1: Go to “Central de Turnos”: Take a number, wait, and request an appointment with the desired specialist (e.g., cardiology, dermatology, general medicine). I recommend starting with “medicina familiar” (general medicine). Don't forget to bring your ID. This can be your Argentine issued DNI card or passport.
(Update 2017: You now need to arrive by 5 a.m. to secure one of the limited 40 daily appointments, which aren’t distributed until 7 a.m.)
Historia Clínica
Your historia clínica (patient/clinical history folder) is where your physician records essential information, such as the date of your visit, your reason for seeking care, their observations, and the proposed treatment plan. It also serves as the repository for your lab results and other medical records.
Patient ID
The yellow index card provided by the records office contains your patient ID number. You’ll need to present this card each time you retrieve your historia clínica or see a doctor. Keep it handy—it’s a crucial part of the process.
Emergency Room (Sala de Urgencia)
If you visit the emergency room at the public hospital on Santa Rosa Street, prepare for a potentially long wait. However, you will be seen regardless of the time of day or night. Be sure to pay the 35-peso fee first. If the main registers (Caja 1 or Caja 2) are closed, you can pay at the security office next to Caja 1. If even that office is closed, head directly to the emergency room—they’ll guide you on how to settle the fee.
Visiting Hours
If you or a loved one needs to stay overnight in the hospital, be aware that visiting hours start at 5 p.m., and only one visitor is allowed at a time. Once visiting hours are over, all visitors must leave the patient’s room.
Personally, I find this policy unsettling. In the U.S., family members can often stay overnight to support and monitor their loved ones. If I were ever in this situation at the public hospital, I’d find it hard to accept and might push back against this rule.
Some Advice
Visiting a public hospital requires patience and resilience. Some staff members, especially those in the records office where you retrieve your historia clínica, may come across as rude or unhelpful.
If possible, opt for a morning appointment—it’s cheaper—but be prepared to wait a few days or even a week to see the doctor. Afternoon appointments are slightly more expensive, but you can be seen the same day.
Most staff and patients only speak Castilian/Argentine Spanish. If you’re not confident in your Spanish skills, I strongly recommend bringing a Spanish-speaking friend to help navigate the process.
Of course, individual experiences will vary. While some people may test your patience, others will surprise you with their kindness and willingness to assist.
Below is a video tour showcasing the key areas of the public hospital in Córdoba.
