Paraguay will open a new 185-bed haemato-oncology hospital in July 2026, marking a major expansion of cancer and blood treatment services after years of construction delays. The Social Security Institute (IPS) will operate the facility, improving access to specialised care for thousands of patients.
The hospital will bring haematological and oncological services together in one location, streamlining treatment for patients who currently face long waiting times. IPS president Jorge Brítez described the project as a top institutional priority in an announcement made in early February.
Construction and funding challenges
The project faced significant delays during its early stages. Initially, IPS planned to finance construction through a trust fund with Banco Atlas. However, when a new administration took office, officials found that contractors had completed only the building’s foundations.
Authorities launched both internal and external audits to review the management of the fund and its allocation across institutional projects. IPS decided to fund the hospital with its own operating income, redirecting monthly revenues to resume and advance construction.
Expanding access to care
The new facility represents a major step forward for oncology services in Paraguay. By centralising treatment, the hospital should improve efficiency and reduce waiting times for patients across the country.
Brítez also said the hospital may eventually treat patients not covered by IPS, depending on capacity, potentially widening access to specialised care.
Staffing and operations
Operating a hospital of this scale will require significant staffing. IPS estimates it will need around 600 employees, including oncologists, haematologists, nurses and technical staff.
All roles will be filled through public competitive recruitment processes, with staff expected to be in place ahead of the hospital’s opening.
Final stages and outlook
As construction enters its final phase, work is now focused on equipment installation and infrastructure testing. The hospital is expected to be fully operational by July 2026.
The new centre will shorten waiting times and expand access to specialist care nationwide for patients with cancer and blood disorders.
Further updates on the hospital’s services and patient care are available through its Facebook page.
