The public-sector union CSIF has raised the alarm about a shortage of doctors in Andalusian prisons. According to the union, 16 prisons, more than 75% of the centres in the region, have had to hire private medical services because they cannot fill their own positions.
Vacant doctor positions by province
- Cádiz: 15
- Sevilla: 15
- Málaga: 11
- Granada: 7
- Huelva: 6
- Jaén: 5
- Almería: 3
- Córdoba: 3
- Total: 65 vacant positions
CSIF is asking the Ministry of the Interior for an urgent solution that does not involve privatising prison health care. The union also points out that nurses are being forced to take on the work of doctors, and that the remaining doctors often cannot take holidays or rest days because there is no one to cover them.
What this means for inmates and families
A lack of doctors can mean longer waits for appointments, delays in medication and fewer referrals to hospital specialists. For inmates with chronic conditions this can be serious.
If your loved one needs medical care in prison:
- Make sure the prison has their medical history and current medication in writing.
- Ask for a copy of any medical reports. Inmates have the right to their own health information.
- Tell their lawyer if care is delayed. In some cases a lawyer can request hospital treatment or raise the issue with the judge.
We can help you organise this and follow up. Contact us.
Source: CSIF Andalucía