“After nearly 15 days of systematic road blockades, the entire health system of the City of La Paz <…> is under a logistical siege that places us on the verge of total shortages and institutional collapse,” said Alfredo Mendoza, director of the Children ’s Hospital.

Doctor Luis Larrea also blamed the blockades for worsening conditions inside hospitals.

“Today we are saying it; we do not want tomorrow to come out with an announcement that some patient has died. We doctors, will not be responsible for this blockade,” he said.

The shortages have directly affected patients who rely on continuous treatment and oxygen supplies.

“I still struggle a lot to breathe, especially those carrying out the blockades; have a heart so that at least they allow medicines to pass through, please,” said patient Elias Colque Huaywa.

The crisis comes amid nationwide protests against President Rodrigo Paz. Demonstrations led by unions, peasant groups, miners, and other organisations have blocked major roads while demanding government action over the economic crisis and calling for the president’s resignation.

The blockades have particularly affected routes leading into La Paz and El Alto, limiting access for fuel trucks and supply vehicles.

According to Bolivia’s Ministry of Health, at least four tonnes of medical oxygen failed to reach hospitals because of roadblocks in different parts of the country.

The political and economic unrest has also disrupted food supplies. Authorities and local reports say shortages of products, including beef and chicken, have been reported in La Paz, while several businesses remain closed.

The protests have also reportedly led to riots and looting, including major incidents on Monday. Demonstrators are demanding solutions to shortages, concerns over fuel quality, and broader economic problems linked to the government of President Rodrigo Paz.

Paz called on protesters on Wednesday to allow the creation of humanitarian corridors to hospitals.