Canary Islands' Dependency Evaluation Process Streamlining

Announcement Details

On October 10, 2025, the Canary Islands' Social Welfare Department officially announced a new agreement to streamline the process of evaluating dependency among hospitalized and residence-based patients.

Key Aspects of the Agreement

• This move delegates the technical assessment activity—crucial for determining the level of dependency and eligible benefits—to the Canary Islands' Health Service.
• Professionals from the Sanidad department, including social workers, psychologists, nurses, and pediatric specialists, will carry out evaluations in hospitals, social-health centers, and residential facilities across the archipelago.

Purpose and Benefits

• The delegation aims to address the current lack of sufficient resources and to improve efficiency, ensuring faster access for people in need.
• It leverages the existing proximity and expertise of healthcare professionals who already interact with potential beneficiaries.

"This transfer does not transfer legal authority or responsibility but focuses solely on technical activities, which are supervised to ensure they meet legal standards."

Duration and Compliance

• The agreement is valid for four years with the possibility of renewal.
• It emphasizes data protection and confidentiality, complying with GDPR and national laws.

Goals

• Automating and coordinating assessments.
• Reducing delays.
• Improving the accuracy of dependency evaluations.
• Providing quicker, more effective support for vulnerable residents.