Protest outside IPS in Santaní demands resignation of president over medication shortages

ABC Color brings us news from San Estanislao, Paraguay, where a group of unionized teachers has taken to the streets to voice their deep dissatisfaction with the public health system. Their protest outside the IPS health unit in Santaní highlights critical issues: a severe lack of essential medications and a general demand for improved patient care. More pointedly, the demonstrators are calling for the immediate resignation of Dr. Jorge Brítez, the president of the IPS, citing a need for more transparent management and an end to political cronyism in hiring. The union leaders, representing the UNE-SN and OTEP Auténtica, have clearly articulated their frustration, questioning where the substantial monthly contributions from insured citizens are going if basic medicines are unavailable. This sentiment is shared by many who feel unprotected by the very institution meant to provide them security. The local director of the health unit, Dr. Dacycis Mendoza, has acknowledged the concerns and agreed to establish a dialogue table, a step that, while positive, underscores the systemic problems that require urgent attention from central administration. From a Paraguayan perspective, this protest is not just about a lack of medicine; it's about accountability, efficient resource allocation, and ensuring that the social security system truly serves the people who fund it.

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We don't understand how there can be a lack of medicines or specialist doctors in the IPS if the insured are contributing millions of guaraníes monthly; this means that resources are being misused, probably investing in something else and not in the health of the insured.