The training of new doctors in Spain has come under scrutiny as the demands of on-call shifts test the nerves, preparation, and response capacity of residents. The 24-hour guards are especially challenging for those in Family Medicine, who are often on the front lines of public health.
Despite the importance of Family Medicine, many positions remain vacant, with 459 out of 2,500 spots unfilled in the last distribution of MIR places. The Minister of Health, Mónica García, attributes this to the low prestige of the specialty and the demanding working conditions.
The situation has prompted the Spanish Society of General and Family Physicians (SEMG) to call for action to address the challenges faced by Family Medicine residents. The society emphasizes the need to end the “torture” experienced by these healthcare professionals and to provide better support and incentives to attract and retain doctors in this field.
While Family Medicine continues to be one of the most chosen specialties, concerns remain about the high number of vacant positions and non-appearances in the recent MIR playoff. The SEMG warns that the current approach is not sustainable and that changes are necessary to ensure the future of Family Medicine in Spain.