Bolivia: Unionized health workers launch 48-hour nationwide strike from Feb. 21-22

Unionized healthcare workers are participating in a 48-hour nationwide strike from Feb. 21-22. The purpose of the action is to denounce a bill that introduces a forced retirement age of 65. Related protest actions and marches have reportedly been planned throughout the duration of the action. Outpatient services are reportedly disrupted at health centers throughout the country.

The work stoppage will likely prompt significant healthcare service disruptions, including a reduction in available services and cancelations of routine appointments. Disruptions could persist for several days following the strike as medical facilities deal with a backlog of patients. Demonstrations outside medical facilities could cause localized disruption, as well as accompanying heightened security.