Patients in the Valencian Community are now waiting an average of 88 days to undergo an operation, according to the latest data published by the regional Ministry of Health. This figure represents the longest average waiting time recorded since 2019 and confirms a sustained upward trend in surgical delays.
At the close of the last reporting period, more than 81,000 patients were on surgical waiting lists across the region. This represents an increase compared with previous years and places additional pressure on an already stretched public health system.
The rise in waiting times affects almost all surgical specialities, although the longest delays are concentrated in procedures classified as non-urgent. Traumatology, ophthalmology and general surgery are among the fields with the highest number of patients waiting for intervention.
Health authorities attribute the increase to several factors, including staff shortages, difficulties in replacing healthcare professionals, and the accumulated impact of previous disruptions to hospital activity. They also point to demographic growth and an ageing population as contributing elements to the growing demand for surgical care.
The Ministry of Health insists on treating priority cases within clinically acceptable timeframes, despite the overall rise. Urgent and oncological surgeries, according to the department, remain subject to accelerated protocols to minimise patient risk.
Opposition parties and healthcare unions, however, have criticised the situation, arguing that the figures reflect structural problems in the public health system. They warn that prolonged waiting times can lead to deterioration in patients’ quality of life and, in some cases, worsen clinical outcomes.
The data also reveal notable differences between health departments within the Valencian Community, with some areas reporting significantly longer waiting times than others. This disparity has reignited debate over resource allocation and management efficiency at a regional level.
The Ministry of Health has stated that it is working on measures to reduce waiting lists, including increased use of afternoon operating sessions, reinforcement of hospital staffing, and coordination with other public healthcare resources. However, no specific timetable has been provided for when patients might see a reduction in current waiting times.
Author: Derek Appleton
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