José Celso Barbosa Alcala (July 27, 1857 – September 21, 1921) was a Puerto Rican physician, sociologist and political leader.

He initiated an early form of health insurance, encouraging employers to pay a fee to cover future needs of their employees.

In 1900 Barbosa was among the first five Puerto Rican leaders appointed to the Executive Cabinet under Governor Charles H. Allen, in the first civilian government organized by the United States.

[3] Originally Barbosa wished to become a lawyer, but after he suffered a bout of pneumonia in New York City, his doctor recommended that he study medicine.

The American consul to the island intervened on behalf of Barbosa to have his United States degree recognized, so that he could practice.

He introduced the novel idea of employers paying a fee for the future healthcare needs of their employees (a very early health insurance system).

[6] In 1898, when the United States bombarded and blockaded San Juan during the Spanish–American War, Barbosa and other doctors who lived in Bayamón traveled to the town of Cataño and took a ferry to the capital.

[8] Barbosa served on the Executive Cabinet until 1917, dealing with a variety of governors appointed by the US during that period, and providing continuity in administration.