10 Apr 2018 | 01:32 AM UTC
Venezuela: Health workers plan nationwide strike April 17
Health workers’ union calls for nationwide strike on April 17 to protest ongoing staff and supply shortages
Event
The Fetrasalud health workers’ union announced on April 4 that its members intend to carry out a nationwide strike on Tuesday, April 17. Pablo Zambrano, the executive secretary of Fetrasalud said that the hospitals around the country are experiencing significant labor shortages and supply issues, while doctors are working for unreasonably low salaries. Related demonstrations are possible during the strike, particularly in the capital city of Caracas.
Context
In February 2018, the Pharmaceutical Federation of Venezuela estimated that the country is facing an 85 percent shortage of medicine and a 90 percent shortage of other medical supplies. In addition to severe supply shortages, hospitals have faced electricity outages and seen a growing number of doctors leave the country in search of better opportunities, leaving the Venezuelan health system at risk of collapse. The situation has been made worse by the government’s refusal of humanitarian aid, with shipments of medicine and first aid supplies being blocked from entering the country.
In addition to medicine shortages, Venezuelans face shortages of gasoline, food, and other basic necessities as the ongoing economic crisis in the country continues to worsen. The IMF has estimated that in 2018 the Venezuelan economy will shrink by 15 percent and inflation in the country will reach 13,000 percent. Besides economic challenges, Venezuela is also facing ongoing political, social, and security crises.
Advice
Individuals in Venezuela are advised to avoid any form of protest due to the risk of violence, keep abreast of the situation, confirm medical appointments, and anticipate increased wait times at health facilities.
Travelers to Venezuela should bring with them a sufficient supply of all necessary medication (as well as an additional two-week supply in case the trip is unexpectedly extended). All travelers are advised to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance (covering emergency evacuation) prior to departure.
