Canary Islands Healthcare Staffing Development

Appointment of Santiago Sánchez Cabrera

In a significant development for the Canary Islands' healthcare staffing, Santiago Sánchez Cabrera has been officially appointed as a permanent physiotherapist within the Primary Care Unit.

The process traces back to a 2019 selection call, but delays and legal battles slowed the appointment. After challenging the initial decisions through administrative and judicial channels, the Superior Court of Justice ultimately ruled in his favor earlier this year, requiring a reevaluation of his professional merits.

Following the court's partial victory, the Canary Islands Health Service proposed and finally approved Sánchez Cabrera's formal appointment in July 2025. The appointment confirms his right to be evaluated based on professional experience, aligning with legal standards. Now, Sánchez Cabrera has one month to officially take up his new role in Gran Canaria’s primary care facilities.

Legal and Public Health Implications

This case highlights how legal appeals can influence public health staffing decisions, ensuring fair treatment for healthcare workers.

For residents, it means an eventual increase in stable, qualified staff in primary care—crucial for maintaining quality services amid ongoing healthcare challenges.