Chubut Province in southern Argentina has long faced structural challenges in delivering quality public services, particularly in healthcare.

Despite the construction of the modern María Humphreys High Complexity Hospital in Trelew, the facility remained non-operational due to a lack of essential medical equipment needed to effectively serve the community.

To help address these gaps, UNOPS is working with the Chubut Province government, providing technical assistance and supporting large-scale procurement processes.

Hundreds of medical devices – including an x-ray system, ultrasound scanners, brain function monitors and surgery tables – as well as thousands of pieces of medical items and general furniture will equip the new hospital in Trelew, particularly the Mother-Child Care Centre. This will enable the relocation of one of the province’s leading maternity units, currently operating in another hospital, to a purpose-built facility.

The first batch of medical equipment has arrived at the hospital – bringing mothers, newborns, and residents one step closer to accessing high-quality healthcare services.

“The delivery of this medical equipment marks a major milestone in our efforts to enhance the provision of critical services in Chubut and foster long-term development across the province,” said Pedro Enrique Garrigou, UNOPS Programme Manager in Argentina.

“This project will enable the María Humphreys Hospital to begin offering high-quality maternal and neonatal care improving health outcomes for thousands of families,” he added.

During a Hospital visit, the Governor of Chubut, Ignacio "Nacho" Torres, said: "Today, we're taking another step forward in getting the Trelew High-Complexity Hospital up and running, with the arrival of a new shipment of medical equipment, thanks to transparent and responsible management."