THE HEAD of Panama’s stumbling Social Security Service CSS)  is to be  investigated by the institution’s Board of Directors.

Estivenson Giron  is accused of  "deficiencies" in his management.

Néstor Vega, representative of the agency's professional employees, said that there are shortages of drugs and medical supplies at Social Security, which has affected the service provided to insured persons.

He said these problems have been outlined in internal reports by the agency.

"There has to be an investigation," he said.

Irma Delgado, president of the board, said that it is "evaluating" all these problems and complaints that have been presented against the current administration.

At the same time, she said that inspections have been made of various facilities.

Emma Finch, a patient advocate, said that there are shortages of some 250 medications, a fact confirmed by the National Medical Negotiating Commission.

Asked if he was afraid of losing his job, Giron responded, "why would I if I am doing nothing wrong."