A scandal has erupted in Madrid over the transportation system for primary care staff who make house calls. The system, designed to make doctors’ and nurses’ jobs easier, is now on the brink of collapse: the company responsible for transport cannot cope, and a new tender for the service failed to attract any carriers.
The core issue is the lack of stable and reliable transport for healthcare workers who visit patients’ homes daily to perform procedures, collect samples, and provide urgent care. According to the medical staff themselves, the situation is getting worse each month: ride requests are often cancelled at the last minute, and attempts to rebook a vehicle lead nowhere. As a result, doctors and nurses are forced to use their own cars, risking parking fines or being late to see patients.
The problem is especially severe in districts far from the city center and in rural areas. There, with almost no public transportation and roads that are often unsuitable for regular cars, healthcare workers face added difficulties. Some have to walk several kilometers or ask for help from patients’ relatives to reach the right address. This leads to delays, disrupted schedules, and frustration among residents who rely on timely medical assistance.
The old transport service contract expires in just a few days, but a new contractor has yet to be found. Authorities promise there will be no disruptions, offering temporary compensation for using personal cars and suggesting other alternatives. However, medical professionals say these measures fall short and fear the situation could lead to even greater strain on the healthcare system. According to them, the lack of transport not only complicates their work but also directly affects the quality and speed of emergency care.
With the number of patient visits rising and stricter response times in place, transport logistics have become critical. The new tender sets tougher requirements: at least four years of experience, mandatory five-seat vehicles, and a response time of ten minutes. Yet even these terms failed to attract service providers, leaving it unclear who will take responsibility for transporting medical staff in the coming months.
While officials search for a solution, doctors and nurses continue to work in uncertainty, and patients wait for help that may not arrive on time. The future of mobile medical services in Madrid remains uncertain.
