Bolivia: Doctor strike ends in Santa Cruz /update 8

Event

A long-running strike by doctors in Santa Cruz department has come to an end. Doctors are expected to return to work beginning on Friday, January 19. However, residual disruptions stemming from the backlog of canceled appointments and surgeries are likely in the coming days.

Context

The strike in Santa Cruz department continued despite doctors elsewhere in the country returning to work on January 8 following a deal made between the state and union representatives. The national strike was initially launched on November 23 and had a major impact on available health services in the country. The Santa Cruz doctors initially rejected the deal, continuing with their strike until January 17-18. 

Advice

Individuals in Santa Cruz are advised to confirm doctor’s appointments and anticipate longer waiting times in medical facilities.