In the largest cities of Andalusia, thousands of people took to the streets to express their dissatisfaction with the regional government’s handling of healthcare. Protests broke out in Seville, Cádiz, Granada, and other cities, where residents openly voiced their frustration over what is happening in public clinics and hospitals.
The wave of public discontent was triggered not only by the high-profile scandal over delays in mammogram screenings, but also by a widespread sense that the region’s healthcare system is in deep crisis. People complain about being unable to see a doctor within reasonable timeframes, a shortage of specialists, and constant queues. Many say they are forced to turn to private clinics to get the care they need.
Cancer screening scandal: just the tip of the iceberg
Stories of patients waiting months to see a general practitioner—or years for a specialist—have become the norm. Some women facing delays in breast cancer diagnosis have had to find solutions on their own, sometimes at their own expense. Doctors admit the workload is constantly increasing, while promised improvements have yet to materialize. Young specialists, only just starting their careers, are already facing burnout and disappointment.
Regional authorities claim the problem is limited to certain cities, but mass protests across Andalusia suggest otherwise. People from different provinces have united to demand not only solutions to specific issues, but also a complete overhaul of healthcare policy.
Public outcry and calls for change
Many protesters believe that delays in screenings were the last straw. They point out that despite increased funding, a significant portion of resources is diverted to the private sector, while public institutions continue to struggle with staff and resource shortages. Parents fear for their children’s future, and the elderly worry about access to medical care.
Doctors and patients agree that without serious investment in primary care and real reforms, the system will not cope with the growing strain. Protesters are demanding the resignation of the regional leader and insist on a return to the principles of universal and quality healthcare.
Large-scale protests and the authorities’ response
In Sevilla, estimates suggest between 12,000 and 30,000 people took to the streets. Similar rallies were held in other cities, where crowds chanted in defense of the right to proper medical treatment. Despite officials’ claims that the problems are local, the protests revealed a crisis affecting all of Andalusia. Demonstrators believe the current scandal should become a turning point for the entire regional healthcare system.
