In a recent meeting held by the Departamento de Estado Puerto Rico on November 26, 2024, significant discussions centered around legal actions and reforms aimed at improving public health and combating fraud within government programs. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to address issues related to healthcare costs, particularly concerning insulin prices, and the recovery of funds lost to Medicaid fraud.

One of the key topics was the presentation of cases against the company Julie, which has resulted in approximately eight million dollars in claims related to Navien. These cases are expected to lead to the cancellation of student debts amounting to 7.6 million dollars. This financial relief is part of a broader initiative to ensure that citizens are not burdened by excessive debt, particularly in the context of rising healthcare costs.

The meeting also addressed the alarming increase in insulin prices over the past decade, which surged by up to 1,200 percent. Following the filing of a lawsuit against major insulin manufacturers, there has been a notable reduction in prices, dropping from 300 dollars to around 30 dollars. This change reflects the government's commitment to advocating for the health rights of patients in Puerto Rico and the United States.

Additionally, the unit responsible for Medicaid fraud has made strides in addressing fraudulent activities, resulting in multiple convictions and the recovery of over six million dollars. These actions have led to the exclusion of fraudulent healthcare providers from federal programs, ensuring that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and disabled, are better protected.

The meeting also reported on the Department of Justice's efforts to combat government corruption. Seventeen lawsuits have been initiated under the Anti-Corruption Code, seeking over thirty million dollars in damages from officials and contractors involved in corrupt practices. This initiative underscores the administration's dedication to holding accountable those who misuse public funds.

Furthermore, the modernization of the property registry system was discussed, highlighting significant progress in digitizing records and reducing the backlog of pending documents. The number of outstanding documents has decreased dramatically from over 327,000 to approximately 98,000, showcasing the efficiency improvements within the registry.

In conclusion, the discussions during this meeting reflect a proactive approach by the Puerto Rican government to address pressing issues related to healthcare, fraud, and public service efficiency. The anticipated next steps include continued legal actions against corrupt practices and further enhancements to public health advocacy, ensuring that the needs of the community are prioritized.