Bolivia: Doctor strike continues /update 2

Event

An indefinite strike by public-sector doctors, launched on November 23, continues as of Wednesday, December 20. The strike, which has had a significant impact on available health services over the past month, has intensified and is now affecting private health facilities as well as public ones. Street protests have also been held throughout the country, including in La Paz, Oruro, and Cochabamba.

Context

Negotiations between the government and the doctors continue to stall.  The government has threatened to fire the striking doctors; they have also brought in Cuban doctors to address the personnel shortages.

Advice

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