In Peru, extreme poverty is more than an economic challenge; it is a struggle to survive. Nearly two million people live on less than 251 soles a month, according to recent data from the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI). This means that, on a daily basis, they have less than 8 soles, just over 2 dollars, to cover all their needs.
For those who face this reality, getting sick is not an option. Without money for medicine, transportation or treatment, health is out of reach. Every day becomes a heartbreaking choice: protect your well-being or guarantee the minimum sustenance to live.
It is a dilemma that perpetuates the cycle of poverty and vulnerability, without access to a dignified life. For thousands of people in our country, healthcare represents an unattainable luxury, not a universal right.
En Socios En Salud, el acompañamiento a las comunidades más vulnerables forma parte de nuestro modelo de atención.
Foto de SES
The crisis of access to health care: worrying figures
The lack of access to health services in Peru is alarming. One out of every three patients who go to public centers does not get the medicines prescribed, according to a recent report by the National School of Homes (ENAHO). Insufficient resources directly affect the recovery of those who need them most.
For the most vulnerable families, 7 out of every 10 soles allocated to health cover only medicines. This disproportionate expenditure makes access to treatment even more difficult. Thus, the need to choose between food and medicine remains a daily reality.
For women, the picture is more complex. Nearly 60% report problems accessing health services due to lack of money (ENDES, 2022). Economic inequality remains a significant barrier to their well-being.
Thousands of people in Peru live daily on less than $2.30 a day, the equivalent of less than 8 soles.
Limited access to basic services has a devastating impact. Out of every 1,000 households in Peru, 95 do not have daily drinking water. This deficit increases the risk of disease, aggravating the health situation of the most vulnerable families.
Sickness in these conditions affects not only physically, but also emotionally and economically. Families face the constant dilemma of caring for an illness or maintaining the minimum income that guarantees their daily subsistence.
The emotional cost of precariousness is immense. The desperation of not being able to access medicines or adequate treatments affects the quality of life of families, leaving after-effects in all aspects of their daily lives.
Las agentes comunitarias de salud son pieza fundamental en el acompañamiento que Socios En Salud brinda a las personas cuyo acceso a la salud resulta limitado.
Foto de SES
“To accompany is to give health”: a light of hope
At Socios En Salud we know that no Peruvian should face these heartbreaking decisions. That is why we launched our campaign “Accompanying is giving health” that seeks to change this reality, providing access to treatments, medicines and comprehensive support to those who need it most.
With your donation, we bring real solutions to the communities. Your contributions ensure that more families can access essential medicines, transportation to health centers and a lifesaving community support network.
Every sun counts. Thanks to the support of caring individuals, we have enabled thousands to receive timely medical care. Your help can make a difference for those facing extreme poverty and lack of access to basic services.
Together, we can transform lives. Donate today and be part of this movement that brings hope, health and dignity to those who need it most. Let’s help build a Peru where no one has to choose between their health and their livelihood.
Donate is to accompany
Your contribution is not only a donation; it is a gesture of solidarity and accompaniment. Every sol you donate means accessible treatments, essential medicines and hope for those who need it most.
