Century of Care: O’Higgins Health Authority Celebrates 100 Years of Pioneering Healthcare and Social Security in Chile
Chile Celebrates 100 Years of Health and Social Security
This 2024, Chile marks a historic milestone in the protection of workers’ rights, celebrating 100 years of health and social security. The creation of the Ministry of Hygiene, Aid and Welfare, Workers’ Insurance, and the Private Workers’ Fund in 1924 established Chile as a pioneer in South America in terms of social welfare, laying the foundations for a more just and fair society.
A Commemorative Fair in Rancagua
To commemorate this significant anniversary, the Seremi de Salud de O’Higgins, together with the Health Service and the collaboration of different Family Health Centers of the Health Division of Cormun Rancagua, organized a fair of services in Plaza Los Heroes of Rancagua. During this activity, attendees learned about various health benefits and received guidance on health issues.
Regional Authorities Reflect on the Centenary
Dr. Carolina Torres Pinto, Seremi de Salud of O’Higgins, highlighted the importance of this commemoration: “We are celebrating 100 years since the first workplace insurance. In 1924, the foundations of social security were laid in work and health. These milestones have allowed us to have a solid tradition in public health today. In our region, for example, we have more than 90% of drinking water supply, although there is still work to be done in terms of access to basic sanitation in rural sectors.”
Torres Pinto also drew attention to the achievements in the field of Public Health achieved throughout the century, mentioning milestones such as the National Immunization Program, established in 1978, and the introduction of complementary feeding with half a liter of milk, promoted by President Salvador Allende. “These developments have allowed us to obtain excellent results in the health field at an international level, of which we are proud,” said Seremi.
Regional Health Services and Labor Rights
Jaime Gutiérrez, director of the O’Higgins Health Service, emphasized the developments in the region during these 100 years. “We have a network of 15 hospitals and we look after the health of 85% of the population of O’Higgins. Promoting healthy habits is our priority, and this event is an opportunity to show everything that is being done in the field of health in our region.”
Jaime Chamorro, Seremi of Labor and Social Security O’Higgins, emphasized the historical relevance of the laws enacted in 1924, which for the first time consolidated occupational safety and protection against work accidents and social security diseases. “This centenary enriches the history of the struggle of the union movement in Chile.”
A Commitment to Labor Rights
Daniela Cabrera, regional director of the O’Higgins Labor Directorate, highlighted her organization’s commitment to overseeing labor rights, highlighting that 2024 also marks the centenary of the Labor Directorate. “It is a symbolic year, which reinforces our work in protecting the rights of workers and the world of unions.”
A Long Road Traveled in Health and Social Security
The event, which included various health promotion activities, served to remind us of the long road traveled in Chile in terms of health and social security, and of the constant commitment of the organizations to continue progressing in the key areas for the well-being of the population.
