Uruguay government appeals court order to fund cancer drug for prominent scientist

The case of Dr. Gonzalo Moratorio, a scientist who played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, has deeply resonated with the Uruguayan public. His battle with a brain tumor and the subsequent struggle to access life-saving medication, Nivolumab and Relatlimab (Opdualag), highlights a critical issue in our healthcare system. While Dr. Moratorio is a public figure, widely respected and admired for his contributions, his personal plight has brought to light the systemic challenges faced by many in accessing specialized treatments not yet registered in Uruguay.

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Es una persona muy conocida y muy querida. Yo al inicio de la pandemia estuve en contacto con él, es realmente una persona muy querida, que nos convoca a todos a sentir esa empatía, la solidaridad y la comprensión de estos problemas. Su caso, que él ha llevado con una fortaleza admirable, nos convoca a mejorar el acceso y tratar de que no pasen estas cosas

The National Resources Fund (FNR) and the Ministry of Public Health (MSP) have stated their institutional inability to procure the medication, citing regulations that permit funding only for registered drugs and within approved budgets. Alicia Ferreira, the alternate president of the FNR, explained that while the human aspect of the situation evokes deep empathy, the legal framework restricts their actions. The FNR's mandate covers a list of 67 medications for 45 diseases, and Opdualag is not among them. Similarly, the MSP cannot purchase medications without approved credit.

This situation, however, transcends mere institutional procedure. It raises questions about the balance between regulatory adherence and the urgent need for medical care, especially for individuals like Dr. Moratorio, whose work has benefited the nation. The fact that a judge ruled in his favor, ordering the ministry to provide the medication, underscores the perceived injustice of the situation. The subsequent appeal by the ministry, despite the judge's order that the medication must be supplied while the appeal is pending, has only intensified public concern and debate about the government's priorities and its commitment to its citizens' well-being.

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desde el punto de vista humano, personal, tanto ella como Lustemberg sienten "una enorme sensibilidad y congoja con lo que está pasando, pero desde el punto de vista institucional ni el MSP ni en FNR pueden comprarle la medicación que él necesita

From our perspective at El País, this case is not just about one individual; it's a reflection of broader societal concerns regarding healthcare access and the often-bureaucratic hurdles that can impede timely treatment. While international media might focus on the legal battle, we in Uruguay are keenly aware of the personal sacrifice and the public's deep connection to Dr. Moratorio, making this a story of national significance.

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El FNR porque por ley solo puede brindar los medicamentos que fueron incorporados después de un largo proceso de análisis. No puede brindar esos que no estén —en la lista—, y menos medicamentos que no estén en el país, como es el caso de Moratorio y de unas 300 o 400 personas más que hicieron recursos de amparo