Medical strike brings hospitals to near standstill

SATURDAY marks the third day of the strike called by the National Medical Negotiating Commission (Comenenal), which is supported by a broad swathe of other unions in the health sector.

The strike was called in opposition to the new law that allows the recruitment of foreign physicians which approved on Thursday September 26.

The union says the law seeks to privatize health services an allegation denied by the government but it is calling for bids from private companies to administer large segments of a new hospital to be named after President Ricardo Martinelli, a move which along with importing foreign doctors, strikers see as the thin end of the wedge.
Minister of Health Javier Díaz said striking workers would not be paid.
The strike has paralyzed health care. Service was almost non-existent at the Social Security Medical Complex today.
"We waited four months for this appointment, and now they tell me that I have to wait six more," lamented a person who was trying to see an orthopedic specialist.
Patients requiring dialysis demonstrated in Panama City.
For Martinelli it is déjà vu as he was frequently in conflict with medical personnel while serving as a minister in the government of Miraya Moscoso. It finally led to his resignation.