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Madrid consolidates its leadership in healthcare: Fátima Matute responds to criticism with compelling data

The Community of Madrid reaffirms its leadership in healthcare with record figures and responds to criticism with compelling data.

Rodrigo PeláezRodrigo Peláez· · 2 min read

An undisputed leadership in healthcare

The Community of Madrid has reaffirmed its position as the region with the shortest surgical waiting list in Spain, a feat that has been maintained for the fourth consecutive year. The Minister of Health, Fátima Matute, presented the latest data revealing an average waiting time of 50 days for operations, significantly lower than the national average of 121 days.

Matute did not hesitate to compare these results with other autonomous communities, highlighting that the average delay in Catalonia rises to 142 days. Furthermore, she emphasized that only 657 patients, representing 0.8%, are waiting more than six months for surgery. In contrast, the national average is alarming: 21.6%.

Aside from surgical waiting times, Madrid also stands out for having one of the shortest times for consultations with specialist doctors: only 68 days, compared to the 102 days of the Spanish average. These indicators reflect the ongoing efforts of the regional government to improve the healthcare system.

Despite these achievements, the Minister of Health, Mónica García, has expressed her dissatisfaction with the results presented. Matute responded ironically to the criticism, saying: "I understand that we upset Mónica García because she had to publish again that our data was better." The minister emphasized that even if the data is interpreted from a different perspective, it will not change the positive reality of the Madrid healthcare system.

It is not just about figures; Matute also announced a historic investment in public healthcare for 2024 that will exceed 11 billion euros, representing 36% of the annual budget. However, she called on national authorities to increase this investment to ensure an even stronger future for the Madrid healthcare system.

Despite the current success, Matute made it clear that there is no room for complacency: "We do not settle; we continue to work and invest in our professionals," she stated. This proactive mindset is what seeks to keep Madrid as a model to follow in the healthcare field.

Rodrigo Peláez

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Rodrigo Peláez