The case of Isabel Dávila Hernández, treated at Puerta del Mar Hospital in Cádiz, highlights the extended waiting lists within the Andalusian public health system. Since February 25, 2025, Isabel has been awaiting a parathyroidectomy, a surgical procedure to remove a parotid gland causing high calcium levels, which has severely affected her kidneys with stones and chronic infection.
The Andalusian Health Service (SAS) stipulates a maximum waiting period of 180 days for this type of general surgery. However, Isabel has seen this period more than double, exacerbating her condition. Her primary concern is not the wait itself, but the worsening of her infectious kidney pathology, which necessitates constant antibiotic use with inconsistent results.
“"If I didn't have kidney stones and the infection, I would wait as long as necessary; but this situation worries me a lot."
Isabel's health issues trace back to 2023, when her family doctor at La Laguna center detected excessive calcium levels. After consulting specialists and undergoing various tests, she was diagnosed with the need for surgery. Currently, she is also under the care of urologists due to the kidney infection, a direct consequence of the nodules that require removal.
Given the prolonged wait, Isabel Dávila has filed several complaints. The first, on January 8 of this year, received a response from the SAS stating they were working to reduce waiting times and suggesting the use of emergency services. However, in emergencies, she only receives antibiotics without addressing the underlying problem. On February 17, she filed a second complaint with the hospital's medical management, and last Tuesday, the 7th, a third with the User Management Office, hoping for a swift and efficient resolution to her situation.
