The authorities of the Community of Madrid have announced a major initiative aimed at improving healthcare services in the region’s small towns. Over the next year, 70 municipalities with populations under 2,500 will gain access to new services: home delivery of medicines, installation of defibrillators, and free distribution of blood pressure monitors. These measures are expected to benefit around 63,000 people, most of whom are elderly or have limited mobility.
The program is being implemented as part of the ‘Pueblos con Vida’ strategy, launched in 2024. Its goal is to make life in small towns more comfortable, attract new residents, and provide quality public services. The medical component of the project alone is allocated €345,000, while the total budget for supporting small communities exceeds €700,000.
Medicine delivery
One of the key innovations will be the organization of home delivery of medications for those unable to visit a pharmacy themselves. This includes people with limited mobility, chronic illnesses, or cognitive impairments. Pharmacists will now bring necessary medications, medical devices, and dietary products directly to patients’ doors. If needed, an individual medication dosing system will also be provided.
To participate in the program, pharmacies must undergo special accreditation. Delivery will be provided only with a doctor’s prescription, and patients will be given mandatory information about how to take their medications properly. This approach aims to reduce the risks of incorrect use of medicines and increase treatment effectiveness.
Cardiac Protection for Villages
The second initiative involves establishing a network of ‘cardiac-protected’ settlements. Each municipality currently lacking a defibrillator will receive a modern device for emergency response to cardiac arrest. Priority will be given to areas with a large elderly population or substantiated needs for additional equipment.
Alongside the installation of defibrillators, training sessions are planned for local residents and municipal staff. They will be taught how to use these devices and provide first aid before medical professionals arrive. This is expected to improve survival chances in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
The third part of the program is the free provision of certified blood pressure monitors for controlling arterial pressure. Residents of small towns will be able to regularly check their blood pressure and respond promptly to any changes. This is especially important for people with hypertension and other chronic conditions.
The regional government will fully cover the purchase of blood pressure monitors. This measure is expected to improve patient adherence to treatment and reduce the number of complications related to cardiovascular diseases.
Support for Pharmacies
Separate grants have been allocated to encourage the opening of new pharmacies in rural areas. Those who decide to open a pharmacy in a locality where none currently exists can receive up to 10,000 euros. Existing pharmacies in towns with a population of less than 1,000 people can receive up to 5,000 euros for development and modernization.
These measures are intended not only to improve access to medications, but also to create new jobs and support the economy of small towns. Authorities hope that the “Pueblos con Vida” program will help slow down rural depopulation and make life in these areas more attractive.
Other Initiatives
In addition to medical innovations, the program supports local businesses and infrastructure development. Small towns have already seen the introduction of mobile service offices, installation of ATMs, and measures to develop trade and public catering. Most of the planned initiatives have already been launched and are benefiting residents.
Overall, Madrid authorities are focusing on a comprehensive approach to developing small towns. Special attention is given to quality of life, access to services, and creating conditions to attract new residents.
RUSSPAIN.COM reports that the region is headed by Isabel Díaz Ayuso, who is actively promoting projects to support small towns and improve healthcare infrastructure. The Madrid government council regularly approves new measures to enhance the quality of life in rural areas. The “Pueblos con Vida” program has become one of the region’s key initiatives in recent years and has already received positive feedback from residents.
