Hospitals in French Polynesia say they can only treat emergencies as a limited strike by doctors is being tightened.
140 physicians have joined the action that has virtually shut the hospitals in Tahiti, Raiatea and Nuku Hiva to demand higher budget allocations as health care needs grow.
Private doctors have decided to close their practises today as a sign of support for their hospital colleagues.
A delegation of doctors tried to meet President Oscar Temaru whom they have asked to help address their grievances.
They also express concern about the expected overrun in the cost of operating the new hospital being built in Tahiti.
The strike coincides with calls for stoppages at the port and airport.
