Spanish Doctors Prepare Indefinite Strike Over Health Service Reforms
Doctors across Spain could begin an indefinite national strike in mid-October as their dispute with the Ministry of Health over proposed employment reforms intensifies. The strike committee, which represents six major medical unions, has unanimously agreed to escalate industrial action against the Government’s proposed new Framework Statute for public healthcare workers. The decision must still…
A nationwide indefinite strike could begin in mid-October as Spanish doctors clash with the Ministry of Health over proposed employment reforms. The strike, organized by six major medical unions, threatens to escalate if a new Framework Statute for public healthcare workers is not substantially altered. The unions argue the legislation fails to recognize doctors' specific training and working conditions, demanding a distinct statute and negotiating framework.
They also seek a maximum 35-hour workweek, better-paid on-call duties, and improved pension calculations. The government's proposal, replacing 2003 regulations, aims to reduce temporary employment, improve work-life balance, and align professional classifications with European standards. However, medical unions claim these changes fall short of their demands.
The legislation has faced both government support and opposition from medical organizations, and it must pass through Congress, where its fate remains uncertain. An indefinite strike could disrupt appointments, tests, and operations, exacerbating already lengthy waiting lists.
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