Spain is expected to make an important decision this week: the government is preparing to approve a special decree aimed at finally moving forward on supporting people suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Almost a year ago, a law promising assistance to patients was passed, but its implementation has been delayed, causing a wave of discontent among public organizations and affected families.
In recent weeks, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Social Rights have been actively working on a new package of measures. As a result, at the upcoming Council of Ministers meeting, not only is the process of providing support expected to be accelerated, but a separate credit line will be allocated to finance these payments. Patient associations have been awaiting the previously discussed sum of 200 million euros.
Delays in payments have become the subject of heated political debate. Opposition members criticized the government for failing to allocate the necessary resources despite the law being passed. In response, officials reminded the public that a decision is currently being prepared to finally launch the support mechanism. Temporary funding of 10 million euros had already been allocated for urgent needs, but this has proven insufficient.
The Minister of Social Rights held several meetings with organizations representing ALS patients to coordinate the details of the new regulations. As a result of these discussions, the main criteria for distributing assistance were established. It is expected that once the decree is approved, the process of receiving payments will become significantly simpler and faster, and the funds themselves will begin to be distributed in the near future.
Families of those affected and activists hope that the new measures will finally fulfill promises made nearly a year ago. For many, this is not only a matter of financial support but also basic justice. Authorities assure that bureaucratic delays are now a thing of the past and that help will reach those who truly need it.
