Puglia approves 1,012 healthcare hires amid service disputes

The Puglia regional government has approved 2026 staffing plans for the Regional Health Service, authorizing a total of 1,012 new hires. This includes 753 positions funded by the National Health Fund and an additional 259 through other dedicated funds. The workforce expansion includes 480 doctors, 129 other healthcare professionals, 42 nurses, and various technical and administrative roles, aimed at reducing waiting lists and addressing staff shortages.

However, the regional health system faces significant criticism from various sectors. AIOP Puglia warns that increasing rehabilitation tariffs without raising annual spending caps could lead to a reduction in available services and longer waiting lists.

Additionally, medical unions, including FIMMG Puglia, have denounced recent regional resolutions regarding the 118 emergency service. They claim the government has unilaterally implemented changes that reduce physician autonomy over shifts, cut vacation days, and remove regional allowances, potentially leading to a mass exodus of doctors. Local community groups in Nardò have also protested, accusing the region of neglecting Salento's healthcare infrastructure in favor of larger hubs in Bari and Foggia.