In a gripping session of the Vista Pública Comisión de Iniciativas Comunitarias, Salud Mental y Adicción on May 10, 2024, urgent concerns about the healthcare system for terminally ill patients took center stage. The discussion highlighted the tragic case of Ivette Joan, who lost her life due to systemic failures in medical oversight and decision-making.

A poignant testimony revealed the desperation of patients facing dire health conditions. One speaker recounted a chilling prognosis from an internist, stating, “I’m going to die from paraplegia,” emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent further tragedies. The speaker lamented that many individuals, like Ivette, did not receive the necessary care because of inadequate criteria for medical evaluations and a lack of proper oversight.

The committee members expressed their commitment to reforming the existing laws, particularly Law 25, which aims to provide humane treatment for terminally ill patients. However, concerns were raised about the ambiguity of terms like "physiological limitations," which could lead to misinterpretations and inadequate care. One member pointed out that such vague definitions could allow for arbitrary decisions regarding patient eligibility for extended medical programs.

The Secretary of Health was called upon to provide guidance on these issues, with a focus on ensuring that healthcare providers not only deliver adequate medical services but also monitor the overall health system effectively. The meeting underscored the urgent need for clearer regulations and accountability within the healthcare framework to safeguard vulnerable patients.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of these discussions could lead to significant changes in how terminal illnesses are managed within the healthcare system, aiming to prevent further loss of life due to negligence and mismanagement. The call for reform is not just a bureaucratic necessity but a moral imperative to honor those who have suffered due to systemic failures.