Galicia and Portugal urged to accelerate cross-border emergency services

The Confederation of Employers of Galicia (CEG) has called on Spanish and Portuguese authorities to accelerate the implementation of a cross-border 112 emergency service between Galicia and Northern Portugal. The project, originally designed as a pilot involving the Public Foundation of Health Emergencies of Galicia and the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM), aims to allow the nearest available resources to respond to emergencies regardless of which side of the border they are located.

Separately, discussions regarding the Colombian healthcare system highlight significant challenges. Reports from the Ombudsman's Office indicate a critical deterioration in service provision, with complaints regarding medical care barriers and medication delays increasing by 75.7% between 2022 and 2024. While political debates over reform continue, there is emerging consensus on the need to reform EPS entities, eliminate financial intermediation of public funds, and implement a primary care-centered model.