Osakidetza

Public healthcare system in the Basque Country, Spain

Logo of Osakidetza

Osakidetza is the public healthcare system of the Basque Country in northern Spain. It was established in 1983 and is responsible for providing healthcare services to the residents of the Basque Country. Osakidetza operates under the jurisdiction of the Basque Government and is part of the Spanish National Health System.

History

Osakidetza was created in response to the need for a regional healthcare system that could address the specific needs of the Basque population. Since its inception, Osakidetza has focused on providing comprehensive healthcare services, including primary care, specialized care, and hospital services.

Structure

Osakidetza is organized into several healthcare networks, each responsible for a specific geographical area within the Basque Country. These networks include hospitals, primary care centers, and specialized care facilities.

Hospitals

Osakidetza manages a number of hospitals across the Basque Country, each providing a range of services from emergency care to specialized treatments.

Hospital de Txagorritxu in Vitoria-Gasteiz

• Hospital de Txagorritxu: Located in Vitoria-Gasteiz, this hospital is one of the major healthcare facilities in the region, offering a wide range of medical services.

Donostia University Hospital

• Donostia University Hospital: Situated in San Sebastián, this hospital is a leading center for medical research and education in the Basque Country.

Hospital Comarcal del Bidasoa in Hondarribia

• Hospital Comarcal del Bidasoa: This hospital serves the Bidasoa region and provides both general and specialized healthcare services.

Galdakao-Usansolo Hospital

• Galdakao-Usansolo Hospital: Located in Galdakao, this hospital is known for its advanced medical technology and comprehensive care.

Sanatorio Gorliz in Astondo

• Sanatorio Gorliz: Specializes in respiratory diseases and rehabilitation services, located in Gorliz.

Services

Osakidetza provides a wide range of healthcare services, including:

• Primary Care: Delivered through a network of health centers and clinics, focusing on preventive care and treatment of common illnesses.
• Specialized Care: Offered in hospitals and specialized centers, covering areas such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
• Emergency Services: Available 24/7 in hospitals and through emergency response teams.
• Public Health Initiatives: Programs aimed at promoting health and preventing disease across the population.

Innovation and Research

Osakidetza is committed to innovation and research in healthcare. It collaborates with universities and research institutions to advance medical knowledge and improve patient care. The system also invests in new technologies and practices to enhance the quality and efficiency of healthcare services.

Challenges

Like many healthcare systems, Osakidetza faces challenges such as managing resources efficiently, addressing the needs of an aging population, and integrating new technologies into healthcare delivery.

Related pages

• Basque Country (autonomous community)
• Spanish National Health System
• Basque Government