Healthcare systems in Spain and Costa Rica face staffing and resource crises

Healthcare systems in Spain and Costa Rica are facing significant operational challenges due to staffing shortages and administrative issues.

In Spain, the Colegio de Enfermería de Ceuta reported a discrepancy in promised nursing staff, noting that only 12 of the 28 professionals announced by the Ministry of Health have arrived. This shortage coincides with high migratory pressure in the region. Additionally, the SATSE union has denounced a critical lack of midwives at the Hospital Universitario de Guadalajara, warning that reduced shifts compromise patient safety and increase professional burnout.

In Costa Rica, the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) is facing scrutiny. The Unión Médica Nacional has called for urgent intervention in the Brunca Region due to patient saturation, lack of beds, and insufficient human resources. Separately, a CCSS Board Vice President, Vianey Hernández, issued apologies after an incident where an open microphone captured her discussing the rejection of financial reports during a virtual session.