The 42nd edition of the Plan Romero, activated on May 18th, officially concluded this Thursday, May 28th, with the return of the final pilgrims to El Rocío. The acting Minister of Health, Presidency, and Emergencies, Antonio Sanz, deactivated the plan at 11:24 PM, thanking the efforts of the more than 7,000 personnel involved.
Sanz emphasized the professionalism and collaboration of the pilgrims, affiliated groups, and the Hermandad Matriz de Almonte, which were "essential" for the event's smooth running. He highlighted "coordination and joint work" as key to the success of the operation, considered the largest in Southern Europe for large gatherings, which was marked by tranquility.
A notable new feature this year was the inauguration of the new Integrated Operational Coordination Center (CECOPI) in the village of El Rocío. This center, promoted by the Junta de Andalucía and the Almonte City Council, and co-financed by European funds, served as a "strategic point for the security, coordination, and effectiveness of the deployment," according to Sanz.
The healthcare operation attended a total of 2,140 patients across thirteen assistance points in the provinces of Huelva, Seville, and Cádiz, in addition to the new 061 Health Center at the CECOPI. This represents an increase of nearly 10% compared to the previous year.
Ninety-seven percent of the pilgrims attended were discharged on-site. A total of 70 patients required transfer to reference hospitals: 45.7% to hospitals in Huelva, 48.6% to Seville, and 5.7% to Cádiz. Eighteen mobile intensive care units were used, and the 061 medical helicopter was deployed on six occasions. Regrettably, one patient passed away after suffering cardiac arrests and could not be resuscitated.
The mobile radiology unit performed 406 studies, avoiding unnecessary transfers. Over 200 healthcare professionals from the Andalusian Health Service, along with 31 mobile resources, ensured healthcare coverage throughout the ten days of the operation.




