Madonie faces doctor shortage: Schifani meets mayors to discuss Regional actions

Last Updated: December 1, 2023

The shortage of medical staff and hospital beds is forcing patients to travel far from the hospital in Petralia Sottana. This is the first critical issue highlighted by the mayors of the Madonie region and the associations who met with the president of the Region Renato Schifani and other regional health authorities. A protest against the hospital closure was held on November 11, with about 4,000 people in attendance, and the bishops of Cefalù also joined in. The mayors expressed support for the regional recruitment of both community and non-EU doctors and the offer of up to 1000 euros as incentive for doctors working in disadvantaged areas. They also requested the implementation of specialist training and a regulatory process to ensure doctors remain in hospitals for at least two years without the possibility of transfer. Regional health authorities stated that by December, new surgical staff and management for the internal medicine unit should be in place. The mayors also highlighted the difficulties in pediatric care, orthopedics, and primary care. The regional councillor for health reassured them that efforts are being made to address these issues and that telemedicine and nursing staff will help to alleviate the burden on hospitals. The mayors emphasize the need for a more collaborative approach and look forward to further progress and solutions.