Outrage Over Reprimand Leads to 24/7 Palliative Care for Children in Spain

In Bilbao, Spain, Dr. Jesús Sánchez, a pediatrician with 13 years of experience in pediatric palliative care, faced a reprimand for attending to a four-year-old girl outside of his working hours. The incident sparked outrage and prompted the Basque Health Department to revise its regulations, ensuring 24/7 care for children in palliative care. "I'm tired, furious, and disappointed with my superiors," Dr. Sánchez shared in a statement. The Basque Health Counselor clarified that the initial reprimand was an advisory, not a formal sanction, and that the incident led to positive changes in the healthcare system. This case highlights the importance of providing comprehensive care for children with life-limiting illnesses, ensuring they receive support whenever needed.