Canary Islands expands specialist healthcare plans amid labor negotiations

The Canary Islands Government has reported a 44 percent increase in specialist reinforcement plans for non-capital islands. Between January and August 2026, these plans facilitated 12,875 consultations for 11,495 patients, aiming to reduce the need for residents to travel to Tenerife or Gran Canaria for specialized care. The strategy utilizes both digital tools, such as telemedicine and teleradiology, and the physical deployment of specialists to local hospitals.

Simultaneously, medical unions in the region are negotiating with the Canary Islands Health Service (SCS) regarding labor conditions. While a recent proposal from the SCS has brought parties closer to an agreement—including measures to limit guard shifts from 17 to 10 hours—unions led by the Canary Islands Medical Union (CESM) argue that certain issues remain unresolved. Key sticking points include the scheduling of afternoon shifts, the establishment of a permanent transfer competition, and new compensation for research and teaching activities.