Feb 17 • 04:45 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Division of opinions in the doctors' strike: 'While the problems are well identified, the solutions do not seem correct to me'

A strike by doctors in Spain reveals a split in opinions regarding their demands and the government's response.

This week, thousands of doctors across Spain have commenced their fourth strike within a year, advocating for recognition of their level of responsibility and education, alongside a new statute that would address their concerns regarding mandatory and poorly compensated on-call duties. While the issues faced by the medical community, such as chronic overload and inadequate remuneration, are acknowledged, the response from the government has sparked debate and controversy among healthcare professionals and political figures.

The strike has not achieved widespread participation, with many hospitals and health centers experiencing less impact than anticipated. Many doctors already face chronic overload due to insufficient staffing and resources, which raises questions about the motivations and effectiveness of the strike itself. The Minister of Health, Mónica García, stands by the Marco Statute, asserting its importance, while some strike leaders argue that the government has not engaged in meaningful negotiations.

Critically, Ana Giménez, president of the Association of Doctors and Higher Graduates of Madrid (AMYTS), has expressed disappointment with the government's approach to negotiations, accusing officials, including Deputy Health Secretary Javier Padilla, of dismissive tactics. Such attitudes contribute to the growing frustration among doctors who feel that their demands for a fair work environment and patient care are not being properly addressed. This situation highlights the need for constructive dialogue between the medical community and government entities if a resolution is to be achieved.

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