Canary Islands University Hospital Launches €2 Million Overhaul to Tackle Overcrowding

The University Hospital of the Canary Islands (HUC) is launching a major operational overhaul to tackle long-standing issues with overcrowding and long wait times. Health Minister Esther Monzón announced the 2024-2026 plan to the regional Parliament, backed by an investment of over two million euros.

The "Emergency Project" focuses on improving clinical processes rather than just expanding physical space. Recent infrastructure upgrades include a new psychiatric emergency area, a modernized admissions department, and a new short-stay unit featuring 22 beds and 19 stretchers. Additionally, a specialized trauma unit opened in November 2025 to better streamline patient care.

A key part of the reform is speeding up hospital discharges. Since January 2025, a dedicated transfer unit—complete with staff and an ambulance—has helped move dependent patients out of the hospital more efficiently. This is supported by expanded care options outside the main hospital, including 32 home-hospitalization beds, 16 spots at the Hospital del Norte, and 17 new palliative care beds.

To support these changes, the hospital has increased its staff by 22%, focusing on nursing and auxiliary roles. Medical shifts have also been reorganized to ensure more professionals are on duty during peak hours. Furthermore, the hospital has introduced a real-time digital dashboard that allows supervisors to track patient numbers and trigger emergency protocols instantly if demand spikes.

These improvements come as the Canary Islands' public health system faces increasing pressure. By using data-driven management and specialized care pathways, the hospital aims to reduce wait times and improve working conditions for its staff.