In response to recent changes in regulations that have increased their workload, Social Security medical inspectors have announced a strike scheduled for April 29. These professionals are responsible for determining if employees on extended sick leave should continue in that status or return to work. In Madrid, they have also called for a gathering at the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security headquarters on that day between 12:00 and 14:00.
The Federation of Public Services of UGT explains that the removal of the Medical Court in disability proceedings has led to an increase in the workload for medical inspectors. One medical inspector is now handling tasks previously addressed by a team of five professionals, creating frustration and vulnerability. This has resulted in verbal and physical attacks in highly contentious consultations.
Moreover, there is a lack of staffing to adequately handle the increased workload. Worker representatives estimate that an increase in staff by almost 30% is necessary for quality service delivery. They stress the importance of better personnel planning, equitable distribution of workloads, and task rotations to address the ongoing demand.
Apart from safety concerns and heavy workloads, medical inspectors are also demanding fixed salaries with fewer variable supplements, as well as independence from the body that pays the benefits they adjudicate. The disappearance of medical courts a year ago has caused significant delays in resolving long-term temporary disability cases, prompting several strikes in various regions in the past year.
The union’s decision to stage a strike comes after months of negotiations with authorities failed to resolve their grievances. The UGT union believes that these measures will lead to better working conditions for medical inspectors and improve overall service delivery.
During the strike action on April 29th, workers will gather at social security headquarters to protest against unsafe conditions and heavy workloads they face daily while carrying out their duties as medical inspectors.
In conclusion, it is crucial for authorities to address these concerns raised by medical inspectors as soon as possible to avoid further strikes and ensure quality service delivery for all citizens who rely on social security benefits.