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If you're counting on a doctor's appointment in the Region of Murcia next week, you might want to plan ahead. Doctors are set to strike on Tuesday December 9 to Friday December 12, joining a national call by the CESM Medical Union against changes to the Framework Statute. This will mean closed clinics, cancelled specialist visits, and busier emergency rooms for nine straight days from December 6 to December 14: just when respiratory bugs like flu, bronchitis, and COVID are picking up.

 

It's the third such strike this year, following walkouts on June 13 and October 3 that already delayed thousands of appointments, tests, and surgeries. The union is also protesting outside the Murcia Health Department each morning at 9am during the strike days, slamming the regional ministry for its "passive and insufficient attitude" to their demands. On December 11, they'll rally at the Government Delegation too.

 

CESM Murcia says the government "has neglected its institutional duty to actively defend the working conditions of its doctors", ignoring calls for a dedicated medical negotiation table and backing a profession-specific statute. They're pushing for better protection on sick leave, maternity/paternity, equal pay for extra shifts, replacement deals, Primary Care fixes, balanced emergency hours, voluntary mobility, and immediate action on earlier agreements.

 

This comes as healthcare faces ongoing strains, with nearly half of young doctors in Murcia battling severe burnout from overload. For patients, especially older folks relying on routine care, it's a headache but the union sees it as vital pressure for change.

 

Minimum services are pending, so check with your centre. It's a tough spot, but hopefully will lead to real improvements for everyone.

 

 

Image: Chatgpt