Health Minister Mónica García is facing one of the strongest challenges from the medical community since the protests in 1995. A general strike initiated yesterday is set to last until Friday and will be repeated in selected weeks from March to June. This is a decisive moment for García, as the strike signifies deep frustrations within the medical profession and a demand for urgent reforms.

The strikes aim to address unresolved issues stemming from the 2003 Framework Statute, which has not been revised for over 20 years. Doctors are demanding a range of reforms, including a reduction in working hours to 35 per week, a maximum of 17 hours for on-call duties, recognition of years spent in training, and early retirement options. The absence of these crucial demands in the current policy proposal underscores the profession's dissatisfaction and their call for a new statute that recognizes their unique responsibilities and contributions.

As the strike unfolds, it threatens to disrupt thousands of medical appointments, creating potential chaos within the healthcare system. The implications of this protest extend beyond immediate operational challenges; it could force the government to reevaluate healthcare policies and address the long-standing grievances of medical professionals. The outcome of this strike could set a precedent for labor relations within Spain's healthcare system, impacting future negotiations and reforms significantly.