Cesar Department hospitals strike over EPS debts

Twenty‑eight public hospitals in Colombia’s Cesar department have begun an indefinite strike, demanding payment of large debts owed by Health Promoting Entities (EPS). The protest is intended to pressure the national government and insurers to settle the outstanding obligations.

Hospital administrators say the lack of funds has hampered salaries, the purchase of medicines, medical supplies and equipment maintenance, threatening the continuity of services. Emergency care, critical inpatient units and other priority services will remain open, while scheduled procedures and outpatient consultations are suspended.

Departmental authorities are seeking dialogue and possible payment agreements to resolve the financial crisis and restore full hospital operations.