Miguel Iglésias, from the parliamentary branch of the PS-Madeira, recently questioned the Regional Secretary of Health and Civil Protection concerning the rumour as to whether the transmission of Covid has passed from ‘local’ transmission to ‘community” transmission, and if so, what additional measures will be introduced.
He also wanted to know if there was a plan to re-schedule surgery for those suffering cancellations due to the pandemic and the current situation regarding the regions legionella cases.
In reply, Pedro Ramos confirmed that the Region has prepared itself for a possible increase in cases of Covid-19 and has the capacity to respond. The tests are a way to control the evolution of the pandemic, and that everything was being done to avoid ‘active community transmission’ of the virus.
Turning to the question of waiting lists, Pedro Ramos stated that there is no quick fix but that surgeries cancelled due to the pandemic will be rescheduled, although this would be a slow process. Finally, with regards to the three cases of legionella, the health authority was closely monitoring the situation.
Pedro Ramos also announced that the health budget has been increased by 90 million euros. He also confirmed that by the end of the year, nine more health professionals will have been hired .
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
