Donostialde healthcare platform protests decline in primary care

The Donostialde Platform for Public Health (DOPA) is protesting a significant decline in the quality and availability of Primary Care Centers (EAG) within the Osakidetza healthcare system. Platform member Itziar Mujika Gil states that the service has deteriorated over the last 20 years, noting that services are offered in fewer locations and often without sufficient medical staff.

DOPA highlights that while authorities attribute service gaps to doctor shortages, these shortages have been a persistent issue since at least 2009. The platform reports that reduced service offerings and shortened schedules in surrounding towns have led to emergency services becoming overwhelmed. Consequently, patients face difficulties accessing necessary care, often leaving nurses and administrative staff to manage public frustration.