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The deteriorating state of Puerto Rico's healthcare system is raising concerns about a potential exodus of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals from the U.S. territory. In an interview on the South Florida Roundup, Paul Velez, President and CEO of Borinquen Medical Centers based in Miami, expressed worry over the dire consequences of the island's failing healthcare infrastructure. A recent investigative story jointly published by The Washington Post and Puerto Rico’s Center for Investigative Journalism revealed an alarming mortality rate, with over 35,400 deaths last year, almost 3,300 more than expected based on historical trends.

The investigation highlighted the collapse of Puerto Rico's healthcare system, leading to a nearly 50% reduction in the number of physicians, limited medical infrastructure, and challenges in accessing healthcare facilities. Large parts of the island lack hospitals with accessible beds, and some residents live up to 20 miles away from the nearest hospital. The island, home to 3.3 million people, is grappling with a shortage of healthcare professionals, including only 95 cardiologists.

Velez emphasized that the ongoing exodus of Puerto Ricans, particularly younger individuals, has resulted in an aging population, exacerbating the healthcare crisis. The departure of doctors and nurses, many of whom have relocated to South Florida with its substantial Puerto Rican community, further compounds the challenges faced by Puerto Rico's healthcare system.

The economic crisis, intensified by the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017, triggered a significant migration from the island. Velez highlighted inadequate federal funding for rebuilding healthcare facilities post-hurricane and highlighted pay disparities for healthcare professionals as contributing factors. The salary discrepancies and economic disparities, coupled with lower Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements compared to the mainland U.S., drive healthcare professionals to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Velez stressed the need for increased investment in Puerto Rico's healthcare system, but the island's substantial debt has hindered financial resources. Puerto Rico's government, burdened by over $70 billion in public debt, declared its inability to pay in 2015, leading to the largest U.S. municipal bankruptcy in 2017. Velez underscored the importance of incentivizing professionals to stay in Puerto Rico and called for initiatives to address the island's debt and encourage economic development.

In conclusion, Velez expressed concerns about the ongoing healthcare crisis, emphasizing the importance of addressing financial challenges, incentivizing professionals, and bolstering the island's healthcare infrastructure to ensure the well-being of its residents.