Spanish regions introduce flexible doctor shifts and heat‑response staffing plans

In the Principality of Asturias, Health Councilor Conchita Saavedra announced a new work‑time flexibility that will allow doctors to work 12‑hour shifts and compress a week into three or four days. The measure is aimed at preventing a potential strike by young doctors and the newly formed SIMES union, and is part of broader agreements on labour and pay conditions that are awaiting final approval.

In Catalonia, the regional health ministry has allocated €10.35 million to reinforce primary‑care services against intense heat. An additional 972 professionals will be deployed to the most affected areas, opening hours at primary‑care centres will be adjusted, emergency units will receive extra ambulances, and hospital bed occupancy targets for the summer months have been set to ensure adequate capacity.

Both initiatives are intended to improve working conditions for health staff and maintain service continuity during seasonal challenges.