Venezuela’s public health infrastructure is struggling due to the economic policies of Chavismo, according to a new National Hospital Survey (ENH) released on Wednesday. The survey revealed that the majority of Venezuelans are now paying out of pocket for supplies that should be provided free of charge for surgeries.
The ENH data showed that only 40% of operating rooms in public hospitals were operational last year, consistent with trends over the past five years. In 90% of the hospitals surveyed, patients are required to pay for at least one input for emergency or elective surgeries, averaging around $81 per patient. This out-of-pocket expenditure is a significant burden for many Venezuelans, especially considering the country’s economic situation.
The survey also highlighted the impact of equipment and personnel shortages on patient outcomes. Hundreds of lives could have been saved in 2023 if hospitals were better equipped. Additionally, many hospitals lack essential diagnostic equipment like tomography and x-ray machines.
Julio Castro, research coordinator for the ENH, emphasized the urgent need for investments in healthcare infrastructure to improve access to quality care for all Venezuelans. The report sheds light on the challenges facing Venezuela’s public health system and the financial burden placed on patients as a result of the country’s economic crisis.
In some cases, patients have to pay for more expensive inputs, such as prosthetics that can cost up to $4,000. This additional expense places an enormous strain on already struggling families and highlights how vital it is for Venezuela’s government to prioritize healthcare investments in order to provide equitable access to medical services.
The ENH report serves as a stark reminder that Venezuela’s public health system is under immense pressure due to Chavismo’s economic policies. It underscores the urgent need for funding and resources to address these challenges and ensure that all Venezuelans have access to quality healthcare services without financial burden.
