Issues such as dampness, leaks, decaying wood on doors and windows, which allow in the cold, and the lack of a proper waiting area forcing patients to wait outside the premises, plague the La Victoria de Acentejo Health Centre. Its Emergency Service caters not only to local residents but also those from Santa Úrsula and La Matanza on a regional level.
This situation is nothing new; it has persisted for several years and is unsustainable for both patients and the dedicated professionals who work there. Just recently, a piece of wood fell on a person, as confirmed by Mayor Juan Antonio García Abreu.
In light of this, a letter has been dispatched to the Minister of Health of the Canary Islands Government, Esther Monzón, stressing the urgent need for action. The mayor has requested a prompt solution as the approved improvement project, with allocated funds, is facing delays due to bureaucratic red tape.
During the previous administration, responding to public demands, the municipal government requested a renovation project from the previous Ministry of Health. This was not solely for aesthetics but also aimed at enhancing the functionality of the facility. The proposal includes the addition of new consultation rooms, covered areas, and improvements to the entrance and Emergency Department. The mayor highlights the need for sheltered spaces to protect patients awaiting tests during inclement weather.
The project, though belated, has materialized with an updated cost of €936,305. It encompasses replacing all wooden fittings with aluminium, upgrading plumbing, lighting, fibre, and telephone services, repainting the entire structure, constructing pergolas at entrances for rain and sun protection, expanding the waiting area, and establishing new medical units on the second floor.
“Funds were earmarked by the Autonomous Community in 2022, but tendering was delayed. The same occurred in 2023 and this year. Despite assurances of progress, we are continuously informed that the situation remains stagnant from a year ago. Those of us navigating through bureaucratic processes understand that it boils down to willingness, especially when the project met the assessment criteria and secured financial backing,” emphasised the mayor.
In response, representatives from the CC party have vocally pressed for urgent action in the Canary Islands Parliament. Consequently, it is perplexing to the mayor that despite the chance to seize the initiative, the project faces delays while awaiting a completed file that is near finalisation.
