Asturian Doctors Reach Regional Agreement on Second Day of National Strike
A significant agreement has emerged from the medical strike currently affecting Spain. On the second day of a national strike involving doctors from various regions, the Principality of Asturias reached a regional agreement with the Medical Union of Asturias (Simpa). This decision has led to the cancellation of the regional strike in Asturias, amid discussions of possibly extending actions into February.
Overview of the National Medical Strike
The strike was organized by APEMYF and saw participation from health professionals across several regions, including Madrid, Catalonia, the Basque Country, Galicia, Navarra, Valencia, Aragon, and Asturias. Reports indicate varied participation rates, with Metges de Catalunya estimating a 53% participation on the second day, contrasting sharply with a figure of 7.3% provided by the Catalan Health Department.
Key Outcomes of the Asturias Agreement
- Flexible Guard Schedules: The new agreement allows for more flexible guard shifts, with adjustments so that many doctors may work 12-hour shifts instead of 24.
- Reduction of Exclusivity Supplement: The exclusivity payment will decrease significantly from €1,056 to €415 per month.
- Salary Increase for Interns: Medical interns (MIR) will see salary increases, ranging from €100 to €150, depending on their category.
- Bureaucratic Changes: Measures will be taken to minimize bureaucratic tasks in primary care, allowing for more patient-focused care.
- Patient Load Reduction: The maximum number of daily patients per physician will be reduced from 43 to 38.
Alongside these changes, there will be increased training for administrative staff to take on routine tasks, allowing doctors to focus more on patient care. The Government of Asturias has three months to implement these measures.
Impact of the Strike
The strike has had substantial impacts on health services. In Galicia, over 472 surgeries and more than 24,000 consultations were canceled due to the work stoppages. Madrid faced similar disruptions, with 300 surgeries and 650 tests postponed, affecting over 7,600 patients.
Continuing Actions by Medical Professionals
Despite the agreement in Asturias, the medical platform Médicos del Sespa has distanced itself from this resolution, deeming it made without adequate representation of medical professionals. They plan to continue their mobilizations and have announced intentions to hold an assembly to discuss further actions.
As the situation evolves, ongoing negotiations at the national level, particularly regarding a new labor statute, are anticipated. This strike and subsequent agreements highlight the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare professionals across Spain, aiming for improved working conditions and patient care.
