health
EPS in the red: health system closed 2025 with a deficit of $16.86 trillion and signs of structural financial collapse
Nueva EPS is the insurer with the most patients in the country. Photo: Courtesy Nueva EPS
TL;DR
- The Colombian health insurance system reported a negative net worth of $16.86 trillion in 2025, signaling structural insolvency.
- Health costs have surpassed income, with a loss ratio of 109%, meaning for every $100 received, $109 is spent on healthcare.
- The financial imbalance is driven by rising medical costs, not administrative expenses, which remain within legal limits.
- Both the contributive and subsidized health regimes are experiencing significant financial difficulties, with many EPS reporting losses.
- State interventions in EPS have not shown clear signs of structural recovery, and liquidations may shift deficits rather than solve them.
- Lack of financial information from Nueva EPS, a major provider, hinders a comprehensive system analysis.