Inauguration of IV Congress of Rural Medicine in Andalusia: Addressing Healthcare Challenges in Rural Areas

The IV Congress of Rural Medicine of Semergen (Spanish Society of Primary Care Doctors) was inaugurated by the Deputy Minister of Health and Consumer Affairs of the Government of Andalusia, María Luisa del Moral, in Úbeda, Jaén. Del Moral highlighted the challenges of providing healthcare in rural areas, stating that Andalusia’s geographical dispersion poses a challenge due to the shortage of health professionals, especially in Primary Care. However, she mentioned that this year all positions have been covered, even in hospitals with difficult coverage. The Andalusian Health Service has over 5,000 primary care doctors catering to 8.5 million users across 1,500 primary care centers. Measures are being taken to attract professionals to rural areas, including improved training, recognition, and remuneration. Del Moral also highlighted the approval of the Strategy for the Promotion of a Healthy Life in Andalusia 2024-2030, emphasizing the importance of health education for citizens. The opening table of the congress included the mayor of Úbeda, the deputy for Promotion and Tourism of the Jaén Provincial Council, the national president of Semergen, and the president of the Organizing Committee of the congress.