Public health crisis: warnings issued over lack of medications for HIV and tuberculosis.

The public health situation in the country is at a critical point, especially for patients suffering from diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis. The National Front for HIV, Hepatitis, and Tuberculosis has raised the alarm regarding what they consider the dismantling of health services, focusing their attention on the inaction of the Ministry of Health regarding the procurement of essential medications. Since 2023, the budget allocated for these services has remained stagnant, despite inflation reaching alarming levels: 211.4% in 2023 and 117.8% in 2024. The impact of this lack of budget adjustment is exacerbated by the increasing diagnosis of these diseases, which has highlighted the state's inability to ensure access to adequate and timely treatments. The data presented by the NGO is compelling: in a context where tuberculosis cases have increased by almost 20%, syphilis continues on an exponential growth trajectory, and new notifications of HIV, as well as mortality due to AIDS, are also on the rise. Health authorities, specifically Minister Mario Lugones and Deputy Minister Alejandro Vilches, have stated that the functions of the Tuberculosis and Hepatitis coordinations will be integrated into the Directorate of HIV, STIs, Hepatitis, and Tuberculosis. However, this has been interpreted as an attempt to dismantle structures that have proven effective in the fight against these diseases. The recent circulation of documents indicating that contracts for experienced and committed personnel in this area will expire on January 31, 2025, has raised significant concern among workers and public health advocates. Since last year, the National Front has continuously demanded concrete purchases of treatments, as well as arbitrary changes in treatments for HIV. This issue is not limited to medications; it also includes significant delays in acquiring necessary supplies and reagents for diagnosing these diseases. The decision to maintain the same budget approved in 2023 for the year 2025, in a context of increasing demand and urgent needs, has intensified criticism of the government. The organization has indicated that the lack of investment is not just a financial problem; it is, in essence, a human rights issue. By failing to comply with the Comprehensive Response Law 27.675, which establishes that the National State is responsible for comprehensive health care, the authorities are failing in their duty to protect the most vulnerable population. This noncompliance becomes a risk factor that could lead to a larger health crisis. Reports about the lack of convening the National Commission on HIV, Hepatitis, STIs, and Tuberculosis are another warning sign. This inaction not only hinders the coordination of efforts among various entities and organizations but also limits the possibility of implementing effective policies that respond to the critical needs of patients. In light of this bleak scenario, the patient community, along with non-governmental organizations and health professionals, is demanding an immediate and effective response from the government. The situation requires a clear commitment from the authorities to ensure that patients with HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis receive the treatment they need, as well as the appropriate care that enables them to lead a dignified and healthy life. Public health is an issue that transcends figures and budgets; it affects the daily lives of thousands of people who depend on the health system for their survival. The lack of action or proper execution of public policies in this sector could lead to a regression in years of progress in the fight against diseases that are completely treatable and preventable. In conclusion, the call to action is urgent. Civil society organizations, along with patients and their families, must remain vigilant and continue to pressure the state to fulfill its responsibility and guarantee the right to health for all, without distinctions or excuses. Public health cannot continue to be subject to budget cuts; it must be a priority on the government agenda.