Since it’s signature on 24 April 2026, a broad range of organizations and unions in the health sector have spoken out against the budget cuts imposed by Decree 333 of the Ministry of Finance. The National Federation of University-Trained Health Services Professionals (FENPRUSS), together with other confederations such as Fenasenf, Fenats Nacional, Confedeprus, and Ancosalud, has led the protests and political efforts against the measure. They have held meetings with Senate President Paulina Núñez, the Senate Health Committee, and representatives of opposition parties, securing a commitment from the latter to halt the cut.
The unions warn that, despite official statements that services and jobs will not be affected, a cut of this magnitude (equivalent to more than 400 billion Chilean pesos, or about $450,000) will inevitably strain the operations of hospitals and clinics, exacerbating waiting lists and staff shortages. The chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Javier Macaya (UDI), has asked the government to clarify the real impact on primary care, raising concerns even among pro-government sectors.
Opposition has also been voiced in the streets during Labor Day commemorations and at press conferences held in various regions. The unions’ position is clear: the cut is unacceptable and constitutes a direct threat to the sustainability of public health. They are demanding that President Kast’s government repeal Decree 333 and open a dialogue to adequately fund the system, rather than punishing it with cuts that only exacerbate its structural problems.