Vicky Dávila confronts criticism while questioning the Colombian health system; Gustavo Petro responds
Vicky Dávila, a prominent journalist and political figure, is currently facing a wave of criticism while she is actively questioning the current state of the Colombian health system. This situation has intensified amidst growing concerns about the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services for Colombian citizens. According to Pulzo.com (2025), Dávila's inquiries at various healthcare facilities have sparked both support and opposition, highlighting the deep divisions surrounding the government's handling of the health sector.
Dávila's engagement with health system concerns
Dávila has been increasingly vocal about her concerns regarding the Colombian health system, particularly since problems with the system and complaints about long lines at EPS and drug delivery locations became more apparent. She has been actively documenting and sharing videos in which she questions patients about the difficulties they encounter, as stated by Santiago Buenaventura (2025) from Pulzo.com. These videos often feature Dávila criticizing President Gustavo Petro, holding him accountable for the current health crisis and expressing her determination to defeat his movement in the upcoming 2026 elections.
«We cannot lose hope and we have to fight and work every hour to defeat Petro,» Dávila said in a Twitter clip, underscoring her determination to challenge the current administration, as mentioned in the news report from Pulzo.com (Buenaventura, 2025).
Reactions and controversies
However, Dávila's approach has not been without controversy. According to recent reports, a video has surfaced showing Dávila being booed and heckled during one of her visits to a drug dispensing location. The incident, which took place at an Audifarma location in Bogotá, captures the moment when some people present expressed their disapproval of her presence and her line of questioning. This scenario has generated mixed reactions, with some accusing her of exploiting patients' suffering for political gain, according to reporting from Pulzo.com (Buenaventura, 2025).
Elizabeth Ortíz (@ElizbethCristi7, 2025) expressed strong criticism on Twitter: «Vicky Dávila is now disguised as a defender of public health, touring EPS as if she cared about the people. But we all know that her crusade is not for the people, it is to campaign politically and take care of her corrupt friends.»
Petro's response
President Gustavo Petro has also weighed in on the controversy, seemingly mocking Dávila in response to the video. «Oh! Victoria, first you have to study well how health works in Colombia,» Petro tweeted, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate, according to Pulzo.com (Buenaventura, 2025).
Dávila quickly responded to Petro, stating: «#PetroTeVamosADerrotar I see you nervous…»
Context of the Colombian health system
The backdrop to this conflict is the growing concern over the state of the Colombian health system. Long lines at pharmacies such as Audifarma and Disfarma have become increasingly common, with patients struggling to get their medications. Analysts and health organizations are attributing these problems to the current government's intervention in several EPS, which are crucial for drug distribution. These interventions, according to these groups, have disrupted payments and normal operations, exacerbating the situation, as indicated by Pulzo.com (Buenaventura, 2025).
Challenges and possible solutions
The Colombian health system is currently facing several critical challenges:
- Inefficient drug delivery: Patients face long wait times and difficulties obtaining necessary medications.
- Financial instability of EPS: Government interventions have disrupted the financial operations of EPS, leading to service disruptions.
- Political polarization: The involvement of political figures such as Vicky Dávila and Gustavo Petro has politicized the issue, making it harder to find common ground and effective solutions.
Possible solutions being discussed include:
- Streamlining drug delivery processes: Implementing more efficient systems to ensure patients receive their medications promptly.
- Ensuring financial stability of EPS: Developing policies to support the financial health of EPS and prevent further disruptions.
- Promoting dialogue: Encouraging constructive dialogue between government, healthcare providers, and political actors to find sustainable solutions.
The situation remains tense, with Dávila continuing her campaign and Petro defending his government's actions. The debate is likely to continue in the coming months as Colombia approaches the 2026 elections, with the health system remaining a key point of contention.
Ultimately, the resolution of these issues will depend on the ability of all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and prioritize the well-being of Colombian citizens.
