Mallorca backs free hospital TV for patients in need

Terminally ill people and long-stay patients with too little money could get free television in medium- and long-stay hospitals under a plan backed in Palma on Friday. The Balearic Parliament approved the proposal, calling on the regional government to set up either subsidies or a free TV service. MÉS per Mallorca abstained, while the other parties present voted in favour.

The measure is aimed at patients who can show they do not have sufficient means. Hospital social services would be asked to coordinate the scheme so that support reaches those who need it.

The regional government is also being urged to review how the plan works and decide on any extension according to the results.

More backing sought for health research

The Health Committee also unanimously approved a separate motion calling for a gradual rise in funding for the Balearic Islands Health Research Institute, IdISBa. The move is intended to make researchers’ contracts more secure and strengthen their career paths.

The Parliament wants IdISBa to be able to take part in state talent-recruitment calls, particularly the Ramón y Cajal programme. It also calls for a Balearic strategy to attract and retain health researchers, with set goals, a timetable and planned funding in future budgets.

The demands include premises, infrastructure and extra financial incentives for the institute, including pay improvements alongside state schemes. Spain’s government is also being asked to increase funding for the annual Strategic Action in Health calls, which support health research grants, projects and contracts.

Topics: Social affairs · Health · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com