The Healthcare System in Spain: From Decentralization to Economic Current Crisis

Spain’s Transition to Democracy set the stage for the organization of a national healthcare system. The adoption of the Spanish Constitution of 1978 was a political milestone that led to the recognition of every citizen’s right to healthcare and the right of autonomy of the various regions that make up the Spanish State. The most distinctive characteristic of the healthcare model set up in those early years of political transition was the decentralization of the healthcare system which transferred political and administrative power on matters of public health to the 17 autonomous communities. It took more than 20 years to complete this decentralization process. This evaluative analysis will examine the pros and cons of decentralization. Due to the economic crisis and the election of a conservative government, the National Healthcare System is being seriously questioned, its very sustainability in doubt as reform measures are being taken that are considered a threat by many institutions and organizations to public welfare.