IVSS marks 47th anniversary amid reports of shortages and protests

The Venezuelan Institute of Social Security (IVSS) marked its 47th anniversary with an institutional ceremony at its administrative office in Cabimas. Local officials, including Mayor Frank Carreño and office head Glexi Mindiola, attended the event to recognize the staff's role in managing social security services, benefits, and assistance for insured workers and pensioners in the Costa Oriental del Lago region.

In contrast, retired IVSS workers and professional unions held a protest at the Social Security Hospital in San Cristóbal. Demonstrators demanded improved medical care, better facility maintenance, and the availability of essential medicines. Protesters reported a critical shortage of high-cost medications for chronic illnesses, forcing patients to purchase treatments privately at significant expense. Additionally, representatives noted infrastructure issues, including a ceiling collapse in the adult emergency observation area and inadequate sleeping conditions for staff.