Death of Kevin Acosta: the tragedy that reopens the debate on the healthcare system and state responsibility

Portafolio Journalist 02/17/2026 12:03 Updated: 02/17/2026 12:03

Death of Kevin Acosta: the tragedy that reopens the debate on the healthcare system and state responsibility

TL;DR

  • Kevin Arley Acosta Pico, a seven-year-old boy with severe hemophilia A, died on February 13, 2026, due to an uncontrollable hemorrhage after a bicycle accident.
  • His condition worsened due to the delayed access to Emicizumab, a vital medication for his condition, which he had not received for over two months.
  • His mother, Katherine Pico, denounced that Nueva EPS failed to guarantee the timely delivery of the medication and also caused delays in his transfer from Huila.
  • President Gustavo Petro and Minister of Health Guillermo Alfonso Jaramillo's statements emphasizing parental prevention and restricting children's activities were met with strong criticism.
  • Medical experts and patient organizations argued that true prevention in hemophilia lies in ensuring continuous access to treatment, allowing children to lead normal lives.
  • The case highlighted the structural problems within the Colombian healthcare system, particularly concerning the Nueva EPS and its continuous treatment guarantees.
  • The Minister of Health assured that the case would be thoroughly investigated to establish institutional responsibilities and prevent similar tragedies.