<span name="style_bold">Abstract </span> <span name="style_bold">Objective: </span>The issue of waiting lists in the CCSS can become a serious problem if not addressed. It is important to offer alternatives based on the analysis of various experiences and models. <span name="style_bold">Methods</span>: An exploratory study conducted by a group of students from the Master in Public Health with an emphasis in Management of the University of Costa Rica. A systematic literature review in recognized search engines was performed and also, specific people were consulted. The final recommendations were established based on the identification of particular problems. <span name="style_bold">Results: </span>Definitions relevant at the international and national level with respect to waiting lists, description of some models or implemented solutions, mechanisms used in Europe to address these problems and the Costa Rican situation up to 2011. Finally, institutional achievements of the CCSS. <span name="style_bold">Conclusions</span>: It is possible to identify recommendations on alternative proposals for the administration of the CCSS’ waiting lists.: It is possible to identify recommendations on alternative proposals for the administration of the CCSS’ waiting lists.

Waiting lists; Lists of potential patients or treatments