Doctors agree to end regional strike after reaching deal with Health Department

The medical union secures a commitment to reduce working hours to 35 per week and regulate urgent care centers.

Generic image of a stethoscope on a medical desk in a hospital setting.
IA

Generic image of a stethoscope on a medical desk in a hospital setting.

The CESM medical union has decided to end the regional strike that began in April after reaching an agreement with the Health Department to implement improvements in the working conditions of medical staff.

The agreement includes measures such as reducing the weekly working hours to 35, new regulations for Saturday shifts, and the opening of 24-hour Urgent Care Centers (CAU). These initiatives aim to strengthen the quality of healthcare and improve work-life balance for professionals in the sector.
Furthermore, it has been agreed to limit schedules in Primary Care, setting a maximum of 32 patients per day and 25 consultations in Pediatrics. Additionally, improvements for residents have been agreed upon, including a salary increase and compliance with the shift limits set out in their training plan.
The head of the Health Department described the pact as a significant organizational step forward for work-life balance and reducing clinical workload. However, the implementation of these measures still requires the modification of various decrees and negotiations with other unions in the General Board.