Canary Islands Resume Recognition and Evaluation of Healthcare Staff Career Advancements

Overview

The Canary Islands health authorities have officially resumed the recognition and evaluation of professional career advancements for healthcare staff after a suspension that lasted from 2011 to 2017.

This move allows fixed public health workers in the region to progress through their career levels once again, without changing positions but gaining recognition of their professional development and experience.

Context and Process

• The reactivation follows legislative changes and budget approvals that lifted the suspension established by earlier budgets.
• The process involves an annual application window from April 1 to June 30, during which eligible health professionals can submit their applications electronically.
• A committee evaluates the submitted requests, accrediting merit points such as knowledge, teaching, and research activities.
• Successful applicants will see their career recognition take effect from January 1 of the following year.

Recent Evaluations

• Applications submitted in 2024 have been reviewed.
• Some requests have been approved, while others were rejected due to insufficient professional experience or unmet criteria.

Significance

"This development is crucial for healthcare staff seeking career growth within the public system, offering official acknowledgment of their skills and experience."

• It aims to boost motivation and retention amid ongoing challenges in healthcare staffing.
• The formal restart of the career recognition process marks a significant step toward strengthening public health services in the Canary Islands.