History of Radiation Therapy in Costa Rica

The history of radiotherapy in Costa Rica dates back to the 20th century, when this technology began to be developed and used worldwide. Here is a summary of the important milestones in the history of radiotherapy in Costa Rica:

1. Beginnings: The first steps in radiotherapy in Costa Rica were taken in the 1950s and 1960s, when the first radiotherapy teams were established in important hospitals in the country, such as the San Juan de Dios Hospital in San José.

2. Infrastructure development: Over the following decades, there was a significant development in the country’s radiotherapy infrastructure. New treatment centers were established and more advanced equipment was acquired to improve the quality and precision of radiotherapy.

3. Specialized professionals: Specialized radiotherapy professionals, including radiation oncologists, medical physicists and radiotherapy technicians, were trained to operate and administer radiotherapy equipment safely and effectively.

4. Technological advances: With the advance of technology, more advanced and precise radiotherapy equipment was introduced in Costa Rica, such as linear accelerators and computerized treatment planning systems, which allow for a more precise and personalized administration of radiation.

5. International collaboration: Costa Rica has participated in international collaborations in the field of radiotherapy, allowing for the exchange of knowledge, technology and best practices with other countries and international organizations.

6. Access to radiotherapy: Over the years, access to radiotherapy has expanded in Costa Rica, with the creation of public health programs and the expansion of health insurance coverage that includes radiotherapy treatment for cancer patients.

In summary, radiotherapy in Costa Rica has undergone continuous development over time, with improvements in infrastructure, technology and training of professionals, which has made it possible to offer more effective and safer radiotherapy treatments to patients in the country.